The key players in the SSE

The Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) is an opportunity to be explored collectively, integrating a cross-cutting approach across all sectors and areas of activity, seeking to strengthen links between the voluntary sector and public services, as well as between private structures and associations, cooperatives, and federations.

Today, these practices can be seen in particular in the fields of culture and crafts, sport, and even in certain approaches to educational transmission, agricultural and fishing practices, not to mention actions relating to medico-social and socio-professional inclusion, often carried out by associations and supported in part by volunteers. These practices demonstrate that the values of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) are more widely spread in our everyday practices, spontaneously and often unconsciously.

A genuine emerging business model in our region, the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) will be an important pillar embodying an economic model for the future: complementary to the so-called “traditional” economy, this alternative economic model serves the public interest, complements the actions taken by institutions and local authorities, and promotes a democratic management style and more egalitarian organizations with limited profitability, whose projects support local solidarity and environmental initiatives.

The social and solidarity economy represents a powerful lever in terms of opportunities for many local stakeholders (commercial enterprises, associations, cooperatives, foundations, mutual societies), which work in the public interest through local initiatives serving the community, with the support of institutions and local authorities.

Committed partners and a team dedicated to the SSE in French Polynesia

Under the leadership of the Ministry of Economy, the Economic Development Agency (ADE) is leading the collective project to structure the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) and facilitating links with all stakeholders involved in this large-scale initiative, with the support and expertise of ESS France Outre-mer and the backing of the French Development Agency. Together, the aim is to build a long-term strategic vision, with and for local actors, to develop an appropriate regulatory framework, to build and deploy a virtuous network while strengthening the existing ecosystem to ensure the sustainability of the SSE in the region, and to implement measures aimed at encouraging the development of the circular economy, energy and ecological transition, and strengthen local services, while combating exclusion and unemployment through an inclusive and sustainable economy.

ESS France – Overseas Delegation

As a representative body and a tool for supporting and coordinating overseas CRESSs, ESS France Outre-mer aims to create collective dynamics adapted to local realities and to develop SSE ecosystems with a knock-on effect and harmonization between regions. A true hub for economic reconciliation, overseas territories are supported in terms of the SSE in building solid bridges between France and the world, thus becoming a horizon in the development of balanced relations and a fundamental lever in the transitions necessary to achieve sustainable development goals.

ESS France Outre-mer is governed by all the CRESS (Regional Social and Solidarity Economy Councils) of the overseas territories, which ensure collective representation of SSE actors. These CRESS play a key role in defining strategic orientations and actions to be implemented, taking into account the specificities and needs of each territory.

French Development Agency (AFD) – Papeete Office

Together, let’s shape a more inclusive, supportive, and responsible society for the future, complementary to the traditional economy.

You too can become a key player in the social and solidarity economy in French Polynesia.

Show your commitment and support for Polynesian social and solidarity economy businesses by contributing through everyday actions.

  • Choose short supply chains for your everyday purchases.
  • Consume local and organic products; give gifts made by traditional artisans.
  • Make a donation to a local community organization.
  • Give your time, put your professional skills and expertise to work for a community project, and become a committed volunteer.
  • Don’t throw things away: donate them. Think of charitable organizations that redistribute clothing, household linens, food, kitchen utensils, games, toys, and more to marginalized and vulnerable people.

Your opinion matters: contribute to the structuring of the social and solidarity economy in your region by sharing your experiences, perspectives, expectations, and needs.