June 24, 2025, Iași – ADV Romania, together with the Social Finance Association, AFIN IFN S.A, and the Romanian Social Economy Network (RISE Romania), officially launched the annual report “Social Economy Barometer,” the most comprehensive study dedicated to the performance and impact of the social economy in Romania. Now in its fourth edition, the report combines official statistical data with a national survey of social enterprises and will serve as a foundation for the upcoming Social Economy Development Strategy to be drafted by the Ministry of Labour.
A Scientific Study with Systemic Relevance
The Social Economy Barometer is the result of an extensive scientific research effort exploring two essential dimensions for understanding and developing this sector. On one hand, it offers a retrospective view, thoroughly analyzing the evolution of the social economy over the past ten years, identifying key growth directions as well as the blockages that have hindered its full potential. On the other hand, the research is forward-looking, proposing concrete solutions and highlighting public policies that must be implemented to strengthen the social economy in Romania, so it can become a true engine of inclusion and sustainability.
- Retrospective analysis of the sector’s evolution over the past decade, focusing on growth pace, areas of progress, and structural obstacles.
- Forward-looking projections, offering development scenarios and policy recommendations for the social economy to become a pillar of social inclusion and green transition in Romania.
Diagnosis: Socio-Economic Realities Demanding Immediate Action
The study highlights a socio-economic context marked by systemic vulnerabilities:
- 27.9% of Romanians are at risk of poverty or social exclusion;
- 33.8% of children live in poverty — above the EU average of 24.2%;
- 19.3% of Romanian youth aged 15–29 are in the NEET category (not in employment, education or training), with an alarming 24.8% among women — the highest in the European Union;
- Early school leaving reached 16.8% in 2024 — the highest rate in the EU;
- Only 12.8% of GDP is allocated to social protection — among the lowest in the European Union.
These indicators highlight the urgent need for alternative mechanisms of inclusion. In this context, the social economy emerges as a pragmatic and immediate solution, capable of creating concrete opportunities for those left behind by the traditional economy.
Social Economy Performance: An Underutilized Strategic Resource
Data from the 2025 edition of the Social Economy Barometer reveals that:
- Romania has 122,754 entities with social impact;
- Of the 2,932 certified social enterprises between 2016–2024, only 1,836 still hold active certification. These have created 4,036 jobs and contributed 96.5 million lei (0.03% of GDP);
- Through the FSE+ Just Transition and ITI Danube Delta programs, more than 6,800 new social enterprises are expected to emerge by 2026, creating nearly 30,000 jobs (two-thirds for people from vulnerable groups).
“The social economy is the missing link between poverty policies, the labor market, and the green transition. With the right financing tools, political will, and real partnerships, this sector can become the main engine of social inclusion in Romania” – Angela Achiței, President of ADV Romania Group.
A New Vision for the Development of the Social Economy by 2030
The ecosystem formed by ADV Romania – Social Finance Association – AFIN IFN S.A – RISE Romania – The Romanian Social Economy Network puts forward an ambitious vision:
By 2030, the social economy should become the main engine for inclusive employment, quality community services, and the green transition — doubling its economic footprint and contributing to the reduction of social exclusion in the most vulnerable communities.
This transformation requires:
- A coherent and modernized legislative framework, with real incentives and support measures;
- A tailored financing mix – including grants, loans, social investments, and reserved public procurement schemes;
- Investment in skills and continuous training for entrepreneurs and local administrations;
- Thematic networks and platforms for cooperation, social innovation, and impact promotion.
Social Economy Barometer: Starting Point for the New National Strategy 2025–2032
In the second half of 2025, the Ministry of Labour, Family, Youth and Social Solidarity will initiate the development of the National Strategy for the Development of the Social Economy (2025–2032). This process will be based on multiple data sources and contextual analyses, including the findings of the Social Economy Barometer. Additionally, the study’s results will be presented to the interministerial working group and will contribute to defining future funding and regulatory priorities.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ciprian Iftimoaei (Petre Andrei University of Iași) and Lecturer Dr. Vicențiu-Robert Gabor (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași), along with Angela Achiței (President of ADV Romania) and Elena Vasiliu, who moderated the event.
Useful Resources
All four editions of the Barometer are available online, providing access to essential data, analyses, and recommendations for decision-makers, social entrepreneurs, and public institutions ➡
https://alaturidevoi.ro/barometrul-economiei-sociale-in-romania/
The full recording of the launch event can be viewed on ADV Romania’s YouTube channel ➡
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTME8OIvzGY