In April, ENSIE took part in the High-Level Conference on the European Pillar of Social Rights in La Hulpe, where ENSIE welcomed the signing of the La Hulpe Declaration, still calling for a revision to better reflect the unique challenges faced by WISEs. Later that month, at the European Social Work Conference in Bruges, ENSIE showcased the transformative impact of WISEs on both social inclusion and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on their role in the circular economy and ecosocial work.

Learn more on ENSIE’s activities within the framework of the Belgian Presidency of the EU Council here below.

12-13 February 2024:
The Social Economy at the Core of the Transitions

ENSIE actively participated in the conference “The Social Economy at the Core of Transitions,” held in Liège on February 12-13, 2024, under the Belgian Presidency of the European Council. This event brought together leaders, policymakers, and social entrepreneurs to discuss the future of social economy in Europe.

The conference highlighted the critical role of the social economy in driving environmental and digital transitions. ENSIE supported the vision shared by Oliver Röpke, president of the European Economic and Social Committee, who emphasized worker involvement in decision-making, a principle integral to WISEs and social economy.

A key moment for ENSIE was Senior Policy Officer Aziza Yussupova’s presentation of the WISEs4Youth project, which focuses on empowering young social entrepreneurs by creating a supportive ecosystem that goes beyond training.

The event also featured a significant interministerial meeting, where 19 European delegations endorsed the Liège Roadmap, a joint letter of support for the social economy, reflecting a growing commitment across the EU to fostering social enterprises and ensuring high-quality jobs.

During the event, ENSIE reaffirmed its dedication and commitment to advancing the social economy and collaborating with European stakeholders. ENSIE insisted on the crucial role played by WISEs in leading the environmental and digital transitions, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient Europe.

25-26 April 2024
European Social Work Conference

ENSIE was honored to participate in the European Social Work Conference, organised in Bruges by the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The event provided an excellent platform for ENSIE to highlight the critical role that WISEs play in fostering ecosocial work and promoting sustainable practices across Europe.

At the conference, ENSIE emphasized the positive impact that WISEs have on both the environment and social inclusion. Notably, almost half of the WISEs in ENSIE’s online database operate within the agrifood sector or the circular economy. These enterprises are not only contributing to environmental sustainability but are also actively involved in creating meaningful employment opportunities for marginalized individuals.

ENSIE also underscored the strong pedagogical dimension of WISEs, which makes them transformative agents in the communities they serve. The dual focus on social and environmental impact positions WISEs as key players in the ecosocial work landscape.

From WISEs active in the circular economy to those pioneering sustainable energy sources, ENSIE proudly showcased inspiring examples from across Europe at the conference, namely Ateliere Fara Frontiere and Madreterra. These stories of innovation and resilience demonstrate how WISEs are leading the way in integrating social objectives with environmental stewardship.

Moreover, ENSIE Project Coordinator Martina Paterniti provided an insightful overview of the B-WISE project, highlighting its efforts in addressing skills gaps in WISEs. By identifying needs in soft, technical, and digital skills, the project has developed harmonised curricula aligned with European frameworks, ensuring staff are equipped to support workers with special needs across the EU.

ENSIE’s participation in the European Social Work Conference highlighted ENSIE’s commitment to promoting the role played by WISEs in building a more sustainable and inclusive Europe. ENSIE looks forward to continuing our work with partners across the continent to further the impact of ecosocial work.