Charting a Course for Morocco’s Social Solidarity Economy: A Tangier Symposium Explores the Future
A recent symposium in Tangier, Morocco, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of the country’s social solidarity economy (SSE). Organized by the Moroccan Association of Presidents of Prefectural and Provincial Councils, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Local Authorities (DGCT) under the Ministry of Interior, the event focused on the role of the SSE in social development. The symposium, held on December 12, 2024, aimed to foster public discourse on decentralization and its impact on this vital sector.
The SSE represents a growing global movement, prioritizing social values and community well-being over pure profit. It encompasses a diverse range of organizations, including cooperatives, mutual societies, associations, and foundations, all working towards common goals such as poverty reduction, job creation, and environmental sustainability. Globally, the SSE accounts for a significant portion of employment. For instance, according to the ILO, cooperatives alone employ over 280 million people worldwide. In emerging economies like Morocco, the SSE holds even greater potential for driving inclusive and sustainable growth.
The Tangier symposium highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing Morocco’s SSE. Participants discussed strategies for strengthening the sector, including improving access to finance, enhancing skills development, and fostering greater collaboration between SSE actors and government agencies. Access to finance remains a critical hurdle for many SSE organizations. Microfinance initiatives and innovative financing mechanisms, such as crowdfunding and social impact bonds, could play a crucial role in bridging this gap.
Furthermore, the symposium emphasized the importance of integrating the SSE into national development plans. Aligning the SSE with broader economic and social objectives can unlock its full potential to contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs), such as eradicating poverty and promoting decent work. Morocco’s National Strategy for Development (NSD) already recognizes the importance of the SSE, but further efforts are needed to translate this recognition into concrete actions.
The discussions also touched upon the need for a supportive legal and regulatory framework for the SSE. Clearer definitions, streamlined registration processes, and tax incentives can create a more enabling environment for SSE organizations to thrive. For example, countries like France and Italy have specific legal frameworks that recognize and support the SSE, providing valuable lessons for Morocco.
Looking ahead, the Tangier symposium served as a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and building consensus on the future of Morocco’s SSE. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the country can harness the power of the SSE to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all its citizens. The event underscored the importance of continued dialogue and action to ensure that the SSE reaches its full potential as a driver of social and economic progress. Further research and data collection on the impact of the SSE in Morocco would be beneficial in informing future policy decisions and strengthening the sector’s contribution to the national economy. Resources like the ILO’s website (ilo.org) and publications on social solidarity economy development can provide valuable insights and best practices.
