GSS EU Science Funding Gateway

The proposals should provide a comprehensive analysis of the extent to which social economy contributes to countering social exclusion in the EU, in Associated Countries and in Third Countries, what services it provides, and compare efficiency, cost and quality aspects of services provided by the social economy with those of other providers. The proposals can tackle (one or more) different angles of socioeconomic exclusion. For instance, the role of social economy as an important player in innovative practices in care provision is often highlighted. Research could identify best innovative practices, including in new and emerging areas in the field of care provisions.

As the availability and use of formal care services differ significantly between Member States and regions, research should investigate the role of social economy between different countries and the drivers of these differences in order to design effective long-term care and social economy policies. Residents in rural areas in particular can suffer with limited access to long-term care services, while social economy organisations are often motivated to provide services based on local needs and can play a revitalising role in the economies of rural regions.

Research should also investigate what are the working conditions in social economy organisations, including in the care sector.

Proposals should aim to provide policymakers with recommendations in the field of social economy support.

International cooperation is encouraged, especially with EU Neighbourhood and candidate countries.