Social cohesion
EUROsociAL, joining the growing concern in Latin America over inequality in the region, has contributed to inserting the concept of social cohesion into the discussion and placing it on the Latin American public agenda.
The social cohesion in EUROsociAL is understood to be related to welfare based on equal opportunities, with a sense of belonging and with solidarity. It is an elusive and multi-dimensional concept, but at the same time is intelligent, comprehensive, overarching, and a hallmark of societies united around a common project.
While the degree of social cohesion is a result of historic and geographic factors, it is also influenced by public policies: ones that work to improve access to rights and services without discrimination; to reduce the gaps between individuals, groups and territories; to provide equal opportunity; and to protect vulnerable populations.
Building social cohesion also depends on and, in turn, conditions the institutional framework in which it operates. Therein lies the importance of having strong, quality, legitimate institutions that respond to these challenges facing citizens, who, as a result, feel themselves to be part of this common project.