Resumen - EN
The values and principles of Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) are perfectly aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Thus, SSE has a huge potential to achieve greater social and ecological sustainability. However, there is no one-fits-all solution to realize the transformative potential of SSE. In this context, learning from different experiences and adjusting them is crucial. The aim of this paper is to introduce and assess a regional SSE practice example from Izmir region in Turkey and to discuss the potential and limitations of this experience. The Izmir Agriculture Model has been developed by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) to support the agricultural cooperatives in order to ensure that small-scale family businesses in rural areas continue their production. IMM has adopted the contractual production model that is based on the provision of a purchase guarantee for the products of the agricultural cooperatives. The model provides a good example of how the SSE can play a key role in rural development while contributing towards multiple SDGs at the same time. Yet, the lack of monitoring and evaluation hinders institutionalisation of this practice. In addition, insufficient support from the government poses the main limitation to replicate it in other places.
