New Changes in Rural Areas: Social Solidarity Economy Organizations Step Up
Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has decided to join forces with 'Social Solidarity Economy (SSE)' organizations to address issues in rural areas. The Social Solidarity Economy refers to organizations where residents participate directly to pursue common interests, such as social farms, service communities, and social enterprises.
Rural areas are currently facing a shortage of various essential services, including care, education, and transportation support, due to aging populations and demographic decline. To resolve these issues, the government plans to actively utilize the Social Solidarity Economy—a resident-centered organizational model—to provide customized services.
Through this cooperation, rural residents will be able to receive the help they need closer to home. For example, social farms can provide healing programs for the elderly, while service communities can operate transportation support or meal delivery services for those with limited mobility.
Moving forward, the government intends to develop various support policies to ensure that Social Solidarity Economy organizations can operate stably in rural areas. The approach of residents creating and operating their own services is expected to significantly contribute to revitalizing the rural economy and restoring local communities.
Many are watching with interest to see how much this attempt, in which residents themselves fill the gaps in rural services, will improve the quality of life in rural areas.