Final chord of the 12th European Forum of Social and Solidarity Economy Entities at the Inter Expo Center

05/12/2024

Cooperatives affiliated with the National Union of Producer Cooperatives (NSPC) and various social enterprises showcased their products and shared their mission with the general public during the final stage of the 12th European Forum of Social and Solidarity Economy Entities. The Inter Expo Center hosted the event, which was organized by the National Union in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from Natalia Efremova, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policy; Assoc. Prof. Vladislav Lazarov, Chairman of the NSPC; and Elka Todorova, Chair of the National Federation of Employers of People with Disabilities. Additionally, video addresses were delivered by Tsvetelina Penkova, a Member of the European Parliament from the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, and Giuseppe Guerini, President of CECOP (the European Confederation of Worker Cooperatives, Social Cooperatives and Social and Participative Enterprises).

Natalia Efremova officially opened the forum, presenting data indicating that the social economy in Bulgaria accounts for over 85,000 jobs and generates 3 percent of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). "These data serve as proof that, amidst a demographic crisis, individuals from vulnerable groups represent a valuable resource for the labor market—one whose activation can help address labor shortages. The social economy creates jobs, generates added value for society, and demonstrates that economic efficiency can go hand in hand with care for people," stated Natalia Efremova.

"Today’s forum aims to showcase the social economy sector, bringing together all relevant stakeholders and providing a platform for participants to convey messages specific to their respective fields. Your presence here reflects commitment and trust; it fosters development and initiative, reinforcing the conviction that our mission is achievable—namely, for entities within the social and solidarity economy to function effectively within the current political and economic landscape," said Assoc. Prof. Vladislav Lazarov, Chairman of the National Council of the Union of Producer Cooperatives (TPK), addressing the audience, distinguished guests, and participants. "Over the years, the sector has expanded overall, playing an increasingly important role in society. Today, the goods and services provided by these cooperatives reach the homes and offices of Bulgarians, offering significantly better quality and design. Currently, the sector’s landscape is far more diverse and vibrant; beyond small and medium-sized enterprises and cooperatives—which provide employment to various disadvantaged groups in the labor market—it now encompasses non-governmental organizations and municipal enterprises that support local communities," stated Elka Todorova, Chair of the National Federation of Employers of Disabled People.

"It is a pleasure and a privilege to address you—albeit virtually—at this significant milestone. By marking the 105th anniversary of the National Union of Labor-Producer Cooperatives (TPK), you demonstrate that you are a pillar of the social economy. Your contribution to the social and solidarity economy serves as an inspiring example of how economic performance can be skillfully combined with social objectives," said Member of the European Parliament Tsvetelina Penkova in her video address.

Giuseppe Guerini, President of CECOP, also shared an emotional message with the forum participants, highlighting the close relationship between the National Union of Labor-Producer Cooperatives and the European cooperative organization. "We are all undergoing immense changes, and it is time to address the serious challenges we face. Cooperatives and the social economy ecosystem offer an effective solution to these challenges—one where no one is left behind and fair competition is fostered," said Giuseppe Guerini.

The ceremony concluded with music and dance performances by students from the "Ivan Bogorov" 140th Secondary School in Sofia. Official guests and attendees explored the exhibition stands, supporting the cause of cooperatives and enterprises by purchasing their products. Students from the Fashion program at the South-West University "Neofit Rilski" showcased their collections on the stage at the Inter Expo Center.

The event continued with a conference titled "105 Years of the National Union of Producer Cooperatives (NS TPK) – A Pillar of the Social Economy," which featured a plenary presentation by Assoc. Prof. Vladislav Lazarov, D.Sc. Participants in a discussion forum on contemporary challenges facing the development of the social and solidarity economy in Bulgaria included Assist. Prof. Milena Penkova, Ph.D., from the University of Telecommunications and Post; Chief Assist. Prof. Martina Arabadzhieva, Ph.D., from the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University; and Prof. Stefan Michev.