GSEF

The Global Social Economy Forum (GSEF) is an international platform that promotes the social economy as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

What GSEF Is

A global network of local governments and social-economy actors

Focuses on people-centered economic models rather than profit maximization

Founded in 2013, with origins linked to the Seoul Declaration

Core Concept: Social Economy

The social economy includes:

• Cooperatives

• Social enterprises

• Mutuals

• Associations and foundations

These organizations prioritize:

• Social value over shareholder profit

• Democratic governance

• Community benefit and local resilience

Main Activities

Global forums & summits (biennial GSEF World Forum)

Policy dialogue among cities, regions, and national governments

Knowledge sharing on laws, finance, and ecosystems for social enterprises

International cooperation aligned with the UN SDGs

Why It Matters Globally

Addresses inequality, youth unemployment, and social exclusion

Supports local job creation and community-based services

Acts as a bridge between local governments and civil society

Increasingly relevant in development cooperation (ODA) contexts

Governance & Membership

Members include cities, regional governments, and support organizations

Strong participation from Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia

Secretariat historically based in Seoul

Typical Policy Areas

• Social enterprise legislation

• Public procurement for social value

Financing mechanisms (impact finance, social funds)

Care economy, green transition, local services

I can explain how GSEF differs from the solidarity economy, its relevance for ODA projects, or why cities—not states—are central in GSEF.

#GlobalSocialEconomyForum