Bordeaux Hosts Global Forum on Social and Solidarity Economy Highlighting Solutions to Worldwide Crises

The Global Forum on the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) took place in Bordeaux from October 29 to 31, 2025, drawing 10,000 participants to showcase how the SSE model can address critical ecological, social, and democratic challenges. Notable initiatives presented ranged from microcredit projects in Mauritania to recycling efforts in France and post-tsunami reconstruction in Indonesia. The event emphasized the SSE's capacity to contribute comprehensive solutions that balance feeding a growing global population, respecting environmental limits, and fostering inclusive decision-making processes (Source 131892).

Concurrently, November 2025 in France features multiple key events promoting social solidarity and inclusion. The 18th Month of ESS, organized by regional chambers of social economy (CRESS), underscores the importance of the SSE in the French economy where 2.6 million jobs—67% held by women—were recorded in 2024 across 220,000 employers including associations, cooperatives, mutuals, and foundations. Key sectors involve social action, leisure, arts, finance, and education (Source 131911).

The Week of Solidarity Finance from November 10 to 16, 2025, led by FAIR, seeks to raise public awareness about solidarity finance products and their benefits, enhancing accessible finance alternatives for social purposes. Furthermore, the 29th European Week for the Employment of People with Disabilities (November 17-23, 2025) advocates for equality and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities under the theme “Disabilities and Employment: Equality for All.” This week's events highlight ongoing efforts to improve disability employment inclusion in France (Source 131911).

Collectively, these events present a comprehensive picture of how social and solidarity economy initiatives, solidarity finance, and disability employment are being actively promoted and institutionally supported throughout France and internationally. The SSE is positioned as a proactive, solution-oriented economic paradigm responding to intertwined global crises and social needs.