Resilience mechanisms of social and solidarity economy enterprises in the face of the Covid-19 crisis: The case of cooperatives in the Fez-Meknes region

Abstract

The economic crisis triggered by Covid-19 is having a major impact on economic actors, who are seeking to adapt to this unprecedented situation. If we are to overcome the fragility caused by the pandemic, we need to move towards a more resilient economy. Resilience refers to a capacity for continuous reconstruction. It explains why, in the face of unexpected or sudden shocks and events, some organizations are able to bounce back, while others collapse and disappear. In several press releases during this period, the economic model of social enterprises (cooperative or otherwise) was cited as an example of resilience and a possible response to future crises. These companies explain that they were able to “react to the crisis” and prove that their activities were based on a commitment to building a sovereign, fairer and more resilient economy. What exactly does this notion of “resilience” imply? Are there specific features of social economy structures that make them more resilient to crises? How do the characteristics specific to the social/solidarity-based economy fit together?