The Social Economy in Central East and South East Europe

Abstract

The chapter explores the evolution of the social economy in Central East and South East Europe and highlights the way in which the development of the contemporary social economy is deeply rooted in the historical traditions established before the Second World War and the effects of the Communist era. Highlighting the impact of the transition, the strengths and weaknesses in the development of the social economy in the region are explained as being embedded in the similar national and international policies that have produced similar paths of developments. The mainstreaming of social inclusion policies and programmes, and decentralisation and local development, can hardly be successful if social economy organisations in the region are not provided with an environment which enables them to fulfil their potential.