The Role of the Social Economy in Advancing the 2030 Agenda: Public Policy, Governance and Socially Responsible Public Procurement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47604/jppa.3734Keywords:
Social Economy, Sustainable Development Goals, Agenda 2030, Socially Responsible Public Procurement, Public Policy, Social Inclusion, Food Security, Governance, Greece, SpainAbstract
Purpose: This study examines the role of the social economy in advancing the social dimension of the 2030 Agenda, with a particular focus on socially responsible public procurement (SRPP) as a governance mechanism. It seeks to address a gap in the literature regarding the limited integration of social economy actors and public procurement within the implementation framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Methodology: The paper adopts a conceptual and policy-oriented approach, drawing on existing academic literature and institutional frameworks (European Union, OECD, United Nations). It is complemented by a comparative reference to national policy developments in Greece and Spain, aiming to provide contextual grounding and policy relevance.
Findings: The analysis demonstrates that the social economy can be conceptualized as an intermediary governance mechanism linking public policy objectives with tangible social outcomes. SRPP emerges as a key enabling instrument that facilitates this interaction by directing public demand towards socially oriented entities. The comparative analysis highlights a significant gap between formal policy design and effective implementation, particularly in the Greek case, in contrast to a more operational and mature governance framework in Spain.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study contributes to the literature by proposing an integrated governance framework in which SRPP and the social economy jointly function as mechanisms for the implementation of socially oriented SDGs. From a policy perspective, it underscores the importance of moving beyond formal regulatory frameworks towards operational tools, institutional coordination, and capacity-building mechanisms. Practically, it provides insights for policymakers on how to enhance the participation of social economy actors in public procurement systems and improve the effectiveness of SRPP as a policy instrument.
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