In a historic moment, the United Nations adopts a resolution that endorses social entrepreneurship as a solution to achieve the global goals.
For decades, social entrepreneurs have worked in the trenches and out of the spotlight, operating tirelessly in the shadows cast by traditional constructs of public and private sectors. These trailblazers and social innovators have long been unsung heroes of sustainable development. Their ventures operate on the principle of putting purpose before profit, making them key players in advancing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, from reduced poverty and hunger, to clean water and climate change.
On April 18, 2023, the UN adopted a resolution to promote "the social and solidarity economy for sustainable development." This landmark piece indicates that the global community is finally beginning to see social entrepreneurship as a legitimate force and essential component for economic growth and social progress. Supporters of this resolution predict that that it will lead to global recognition for the role of social enterprises, cooperatives, and others in building sustainable economies.
Dr. François Bonnici, director of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship and head of social innovation at the World Economic Forum said: “Social innovators, social entrepreneurs and other purpose-first businesses have been promoting and contributing to sustainable development for decades. It is fantastic news that this is now recognized in a UN resolution.”
For current and aspiring social entreprenuers, this resolution provides an encouragin signal. It not only validates the efficacy of the field, but it is a testament that your work and aspirations align with global priorities. And with this recognition, the road ahead is filled with new possibilities for partnerships, policy influence, and the potential to catalyze meaningful change at an unprecendented level.
The resolution was the work of the UN Inter-Agency Task Force on Social and Solidarity Economy.
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