The UN Inter-Agency Task Force on Social and Solidarity Economy (UNTFSSE) has called for continued commitment to safeguard recent progress as the sector gains international recognition. During its 54th Regular Meeting, held virtually, members and observers welcomed references to cooperatives and the social and solidarity economy (SSE) in the Doha Political Declaration, set to be adopted at the Second World Summit for Social Development from 4–6 November 2025.
However, the Task Force emphasized that recognition alone is not enough. With the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 drawing to a close, participants stressed that sustained engagement is crucial to prevent setbacks. Budget pressures across UN agencies, international organizations, and national administrations are affecting SSE-related work, and funding for key activities, including preparatory work for the 2026 UN Secretary-General’s report on SSE for sustainable development, remains uncertain.
Looking forward, the Secretariat outlined plans for the 5th UNTFSSE Technical Symposium in Murcia, Spain, on 4–5 December 2025. The symposium will help set priorities for 2026–2027 and inform the Secretary-General’s 2026 report, aligning with global agendas and the World Social Summit follow-up. Member States are also considering the creation of an informal UN platform for intergovernmental coordination on SSE.
The Task Force highlighted the countercyclical role of the social and solidarity economy in mitigating crises while promoting resilience, inclusion, and sustainability. Updates from regions and institutions underscored both progress and challenges, with participants urging conceptual clarity to distinguish SSE from related approaches such as inclusive business.
Additionally, the UNTFSSE Technical Working Group on Financial Access and Support released a new publication, Boosting the Contribution of Social and Solidarity Economy Entities to Sustainable Development: A Collection of Good Practices to Strengthen Their Access to Finance, led by UNCTAD.
The Task Force plans to reconvene in November to finalize preparations for the Murcia symposium, conclude the International Year of Cooperatives, and maintain coordinated momentum into 2026.
