The solidarity economy: a connection with the territorial development of Niterói and São Gonçalo (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Abstract

This article presents the results of an investigation made in ventures located in Niterói and São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, in atention to a solicitation of Brazilian Education Ministry and Universidade Federal Fluminense. The research purpose is to go to the field and verify how work practiced in the associations/cooperatives involves the principles of Solidarity Economics (EcoSol). Beyond that, the research also observed how local communities relate from this “other” economy that proposes developing new human relations. In this context, the main diffi - culties faced by this ventures concerning legalization, public policies and financial profits are also reported. The investigation made possible a deeper look on the differences from Solidarity Economics theoretical principles and the way they are lived. That is because, of course, there is still a strong influence of capitalism, once that this ventures are inserted into a society ruled by the capitalist system. But even with the difficulties and limitations already referred, the associations/cooperatives can put into practice some of the Ecosol´s concepts. The investigation also revealed the positive and satisfactory side of those who begin to use the Ecosol´s principles, many times without knowing deeply what this economy is. The enthusiasm and the will to develop the Ecosol seen in these ventures lead us to report the story of these people that, despite the difficulties, fight to put into practice this “other” economy.

Key words: collectivity, community, development, solidarity-based economy, ventures.