Social enterprise models in transitional countries: legacy from socialism, challenges from capitalism and uncertainties from rising inequalities

This study examines the relationships between social enterprise models that existed under socialism in three Western Balkan countries (Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo) with existing types of social enterprises. The study aims at... [ view full abstract ]

This study examines the relationships between social enterprise models that existed under socialism in three Western Balkan countries (Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo) with existing types of social enterprises. The study aims at investigating how socialistic legacy has influenced the development of the new models of social enterprise, in particular how experiences and attitudes have shaped the legal and policy framework for social enterprises. By doing this our purpose is to establish factors that positively correlate with the development of SE in the Western Balkans, e.g. necessary enabling environment elements. The study uses ISCEM questionnaire and is based on a sample of 75 social enterprises. It examines the difference between SE models that have emerged out of the socialistic models, compared to new ‘imported’ models and how this affects their efficiency. The study in particularly will examine how transition has influenced the development of SE in civil society sector, as compared to the business sector. Possibilities for integration of marginalized groups will also be examined as well as their scope and effectiveness.
Key words: social enterprise models, Western Balkans, socialism, legacy, enabling environment