Three out of every four Europeans back social economy
A Eurobarometer reveals that 75% of European citizens consider the social economy a key pillar for collective well-being, with a particularly significant impact on health and care.
A special Eurobarometer survey by the European Commission reveals that 75% of EU citizens consider that the social economy, integrated by cooperatives, mutual societies, foundations and associations, is an essential foundation on which to build common welfare, with a particularly relevant impact in the areas of health and care.
The study, The social economy in the lives of Europeans, was based on 26,410 interviews carried out in the 27 Member States in May 2025 and it confirms the growing importance of this model in view of the challenges such as dependence and primary healthcare. According to the results, Europeans perceive the social economy as a leader in key sectors.
The healthcare and care area is where a greater impact is acknowledged, ahead of education or housing. The citizens underscore its capacity to offer accessible services, manage socio-healthcare centres and reduce inequalities by way of the reinvestment of profits in the communities themselves.
The social economy: a driver of well-being and citizen support in Europe
Over half of those interviewed (56%) have had some kind of link to these organisations over the last five years, either as volunteers, donors or clients and users. In the Healthcare field, this presence is also translated into a civil society that supports mental health, long-term care or cover in country areas that are underserved.
The demand for public support is clear: 88% of Europeans believe that the institutions should back the social economy; 86% demand greater awareness and support to create new organisations and 80% champion direct public funding. The Netherlands and Ireland have the most favourable perceptions, whilst Greece and Bulgaria show less implantation. The European Vice-president, Roxana Minzatu announced that these conclusions will be integrated into the review of the Social Economy Plan of Action foreseen for 2026.
Citizen backing confirms the solidity of a model which, with 11.5 million jobs in Europe, plays an increasingly consolidated role on the continent.
