Members of the Majlisi Namoyandagon, Tajikistan's lower chamber of parliament, have introduced a bill on social entrepreneurship, which is now under consideration. This legislative move aims to establish a framework for socially responsible business activities that support socially vulnerable groups and provide essential social goods and services, ASIA-Plus reports.
Definition and Scope of Social Entrepreneurship
The proposed law defines social entrepreneurship as a business activity focused on addressing social issues and supporting vulnerable populations. It encompasses the production and supply of social goods and the provision of social services, all conducted within the guidelines set forth by the new legislation.
The bill's authors, R. Rajabzoda, R. Shomurod, and J. Murtazozoda, highlight the urgency of implementing social entrepreneurship mechanisms in Tajikistan. They point to the increasing financial burden on the state budget due to rising pension payments, allowances, and compensations for vulnerable groups.
Rising Need for Social Entrepreneurship
Data from the Agency for Statistics under the President of Tajikistan underscores this need. In 2022, the total number of pensioners in Tajikistan reached 763,300, marking a 23.6% increase since 2015. Additionally, the number of people with disabilities rose to 159,100, a 0.88% increase compared to 2021. These figures highlight the growing demographic challenges that social entrepreneurship could help address.
Objectives and Principles
The draft law outlines the concept, objectives, principles, and areas of activity for social entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the importance of applying entrepreneurial principles to create businesses that generate social change and address systemic social or cultural problems. Social entrepreneurs are driven by a desire to alleviate these issues and develop business models that make a positive impact.
Areas of Focus and Business Models
Key areas of interest for social entrepreneurs in Tajikistan may include economic development, education, gender equality, healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and community development. Depending on the business model and available funding, social entrepreneurship in Tajikistan can operate as a non-profit, for-profit, or hybrid business (also known as a social enterprise).
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