Matt Hancock studied Cooperative Economics in Bologna, Italy where he lived and worked between 2003 and 2005. Workshop participants will learn about the main features of the “Emilian Model” of development, including the cooperative economy, flexible manufacturing networks and policy framework. The workshop presents a positive and sustainable alternative to neo-liberalism, based on economic democracy, sustainability and a commitment to local development in the context of international development.

The Emilian Model, which has its origins in the socialist municipal governments and militant peasant struggles of the turn of the last century, is now one of the most significant examples of an Economic Democracy in a developed, industrialized society. Economic development is driven by a social partnership of business, labor and government combining efficiency, high performance, global competitiveness and social and environmental sustainability. Social priorities drive the development agenda in Emilia-Romagna, not the other way around.

Democracy and participation are just as strong in the economic sphere as they are in the labor movement and in the market. The region is home to over 4,000 cooperatives, including COOP, Italy’s largest retailer, several large-scale agricultural cooperatives and over 1,000 worker-owned cooperatives, including industrial cooperatives active throughout the developed and developing world. The region’s cooperatives have developed a High Road business model driven by sustainable local development, creating new employment and wealth in their home communities while contributing to economic development in the developing world.

This workshop touches on many of the US Social Forum’s cross-cutting themes, including a critique and alternative to neo-liberalism, internationalism, social justice and sustainability.

Emilia-Romagna’s experience is further proof that another world is, indeed, possible. As the social movements in the US and throughout the world continue to construct an alternative to the current neo-liberal paradigm, it is essential that we learn from the successes and challenges of an experience like the Emilian model.

A paper on the Emilian model will be distributed to workshop participants. Matt’s presentation will include a short, fun power-point presentation.