On July 12, SOLID project partners, supported by the European Commission, gathered at the European Economic and Social Council in Brussels for the project’s closing seminar, organized by BUSINESSMED. This event brought together social partners and civil society organizations (CSOs) from across the southern Mediterranean to present 100 targeted recommendations. These strategies aim to reinforce social dialogue between employer and employee unions and with civil society actors, supporting goals of economic stability, development, peace, and social security throughout the region.
The second phase of the project, known as SOLID 2, builds upon the progress of its initial phase, SOLID 1. Funded by the European Union, and coordinated by key organizations like the International Trade Union Federation (ITF), the Arab Trade Union Confederation (ATUC), BUSINESSMED, and the Arab Network of CSOs, SOLID 2 expands social dialogue to address critical regional transitions. As part of this expanded effort, SOLID 2 incorporates new countries—Algeria, Palestine, and Lebanon—ensuring alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by developing a charter centered on five major transitions: economic, social, environmental, digital, and industrial.
The SOLID project, also known as South Med Social Dialogue, unites CSOs and social partners from Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon. The collaborative effort underpins a shared belief in social dialogue as a critical mechanism for fostering sustainable development and addressing social challenges within communities. By engaging employers, employees, and civil society, the project establishes a framework designed to bolster economic resilience and political stability.
The seminar also highlighted resilience-building in response to socio-economic crises. The project advocates for an adaptable economy, emphasizing the need for digital transformation, knowledge exchange, and learning-driven innovation to help the southern Mediterranean adapt to the fourth industrial revolution. These initiatives are seen as essential in fortifying the region’s economy against future challenges, with a focus on digital skills and new technologies.
An essential outcome of the SOLID project has been its role in fostering social cohesion, a crucial component of national and regional stability. By encouraging open dialogue among diverse stakeholders, the project emphasizes the importance of strong relationships between the state and civil society, grounded in democratic principles. This inclusive approach not only addresses immediate social issues but also builds long-term trust, cultivating an environment supportive of sustainable development and political stability.
