Montenegro has strong potential to develop a vibrant and recognizable social economy ecosystem – a model that connects economic growth with social solidarity and responsibility. This was the key message from the conference “Social Economy in Montenegro: New Models of Social Development,” organized by the Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Dialogue in cooperation with the EU Support to the Employment and Social Policy Sector Project.
State Secretary Anđela Nedović said that technological transformation and new forms of work require models that combine economic efficiency with social solidarity.
“Social economy represents entrepreneurship with a human face — where profit has purpose, and success is measured by how many lives are improved, not just by financial results,” Nedović stated.
She emphasized that social enterprises, cooperatives, and associations based on solidarity and shared interests can serve as a bridge between the social protection system and sustainable employment, particularly for vulnerable groups such as youth, people with disabilities, women from rural areas, and the long-term unemployed.
“Montenegro has the potential to build a strong and recognizable social economy ecosystem that unites knowledge, solidarity, and entrepreneurial spirit,” she said, adding that the Ministry is working with the European Union and international partners on projects promoting social innovation and youth employment.
Liselotte Isaksson, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation’s Cooperation Section, highlighted that social economy links economic growth with social responsibility and inclusion.
“It’s an economy that puts people, communities, and the planet first. Social enterprises worldwide contribute to inclusion, innovation, and sustainability,” she noted, citing examples from Spain’s Basque Country, Italy, and France.
Isaksson stressed the importance of creating a clear legal and institutional framework to recognize and support social enterprises in Montenegro.
“Without defined rules, social enterprises remain in a grey zone — neither recognized nor protected. Montenegro, with EU support, can build a system that strengthens and safeguards social entrepreneurship,” she concluded.
