In November 2023, within the framework of the EMES International Research Network, a diverse group of approximately 20 researchers from institutions across Europe (Ireland, Spain, Finland, Italy, Germany, Hungary, Greece, and the Netherlands) and other continents (India and Australia) came together to form the Rural and Regional Perspectives on Social and Solidarity Economy and Social Innovation (RUR-SE) affinity group. This collaborative initiative seeks to explore, understand, and highlight the role of social and solidarity economy (SSE) organizations and social innovation (SI) initiatives in fostering rural and regional development.
SSE organizations and SI initiatives have historically played a vital role in various sectors, including care, sustainable agriculture, housing, renewable energy, and local community development. These efforts contribute to inclusive rural growth and more balanced regional development, tackling critical challenges while promoting sustainability and social cohesion.
Research Themes and Focus Areas
The RUR-SE group tackles a range of pressing issues, such as:
This November (2024), the group welcomed researchers Katja Rinne-Koski, Merja Lähdesmäki, and Anne Matilainen from the Ruralia Institute at the University of Helsinki. They provided a great presentation showcasing their research on community-based social entrepreneurship in rural areas with a number of projects implemented over the last 10 years. Key aspects about the role of community-based social enterprises in rural areas especially as service providers, their relationship with their communities and municipalities and the question of legitimacy arise in their presentation and in the meaningful discussion with other colleagues of the affinity group.
Building a Collaborative Future
Beyond regular seminars, the RUR-SE group focuses on collaborative writing on topics related to its members, the development of collaborative proposals for research projects, communication and dissemination of research studies to the general public and policymakers and the development of transdisciplinary forum sessions to interact with other stakeholders, especially practitioners and policymakers.
Leadership and Vision
The RUR-SE affinity group is led by EMES Board member Lucas Olmedo Osuna (University of Almeria, Spain), along with Marina Novikova (Leibniz Institute for Urban and Regional Ecological Development, Germany), Mary O’Shaughnessy (University College Cork, Ireland), and Marta Solórzano (UNED, Spain). Their vision underscores the value of fostering international collaboration, exchanging knowledge, and advancing research in the SE field to strengthen rural and regional resilience worldwide. Formed within the EMES International Research Network, the group embodies the network’s commitment to advancing cutting-edge research and creating meaningful impact through SSE and SI initiatives.
Researchers interested in joining the RUR-SE affinity group are encouraged to learn more by becoming a member of the EMES Network.
For more information, visit the EMES website and discover how to join the network.