On July 24, Benoît Hamon, France’s Minister responsible for the Social and Solidarity Economy, presented a new bill on the Social and Solidarity Economy.
The proposed law is described as a key part of the government’s ‘battle for employment,’ supporting the Social and Solidarity Economy sector’s strong growth potential.
The government notes that, the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) sector in France represents 2.4 million workers (1 out of 8 non-public sector jobs) in 200,000 organizations: non-profits, cooperatives, mutuals, foundations and social enterprises. In fact, over the last 10 years, the SSE sector created 23% of new jobs, compared with 7% for the traditional economy.
The bill focuses on five priorities:
- Amplifying financing for SSE structures and businesses
- Increasing worker empowerment and control
- Creating regional employment
- Consolidating the economic model of SSE businesses
- Integrating SSE public policies for long term stability
France’s step follows Québec’s introduction of a Social Economy Framework Law earlier this year, and a growing number of other countries which have passed similar legislation.
See the Government of France’s announcement (in French) >>
