France Adopts First National Strategy to Elevate Social and Solidarity Economy

France has officially adopted its inaugural national strategy for the Social and Solidarity Economy (ESS), marking a key milestone in recognizing and supporting this sector's critical role in the national economy. This new strategy aims to dismantle development barriers, secure funding, and integrate ESS initiatives into national and local public policies.

Developed collaboratively with ESS stakeholders, the strategy is structured around five strategic axes and will undergo annual monitoring, with an initial assessment planned for 2030. The primary axis targets strengthening the ESS’s integration into public policies through enhanced coordination and the establishment of an Interministerial Committee dedicated to ESS. Another pivotal axis focuses on promoting investment and financing, highlighted by a state agreement with the public investment bank Bpifrance, alongside support for dedicated private equity funds.

The ESS in France, which includes associations, mutuals, cooperatives, and commercial enterprises rooted in social utility and solidarity, represents a significant economic force—contributing 10% of the country's GDP, employing 2.7 million people, and engaging 13 million volunteers. In 2024, the state plans to allocate 16 billion euros to bolster this sector. The strategy also addresses pressing environmental, digital, and demographic challenges, enhancing ESS's attractiveness through education and training, while aiming to strengthen its global standing.

Although the government expressed satisfaction with the strategy's adoption, it faced hurdles in approval. The measure passed the Superior Council of ESS with only 8 votes from state representatives, while many actors, including local authorities and social partners, abstained. ESS France highlighted this division, noting the abstentions among key stakeholders. Despite these challenges, the strategy maintains its commitments to secure financing and embed ESS initiatives firmly within public policy frameworks.

This strategy signifies France’s commitment to advancing the social and solidarity economy as a vital component of its economic and social fabric, balancing growth with solidarity and sustainability objectives.