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WORK INTEGRATION SOCIAL ENTERPRISES AS ROLE-MODELS OF SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
Abstract
The European Union’s Agenda 2023 underscores its robust commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a comprehensive and coordinated approach. This agenda focuses on integrating the SDGs into all EU policies and initiatives, ensuring that economic, social, and environmental dimensions are addressed simultaneously. Social sustainability is a critical dimension of sustainable development that focuses on maintaining and improving the well-being of current and future generations. It encompasses efforts to foster equitable access to resources, opportunities, and social services, ensuring that all individuals and communities can thrive. Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) play a crucial role in reaching those targets that are also implemented in the UN’s SGDs, by fostering social inclusion and economic integration by providing employment opportunities to marginalized and disadvantaged groups. The primary objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse models of WISEs across Europe, capturing the unique features and practices that define their operations in different national contexts. By conducting a thorough secondary data analysis (desk research) it aims to systematically analyze the Romanian situation, identifying key areas of strength and potential challenges that WISEs face within the country. Furthermore, this paper advocates for the importance of fostering international collaboration among WISEs. Such cooperation is crucial for sharing best practices, enhancing operational efficiencies, and collectively advancing the social sustainability goals set forth by Europe. Through coordinated efforts and support from instruments like the European Social Fund, WISEs can significantly contribute to building a more inclusive and resilient European society.
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