Article by RIPESS Europe
At the RIPESS Europe Knowledge Commons Circle, we’ve observed a growing interest in the Social Solidarity Economy (SSE), both in academic research and among people who envision a future working in this field. This trend signals an important and encouraging shift, especially considering that SSE has long been overlooked by mainstream research institutions and excluded from dominant economic narratives.
While this renewed attention is welcome, it’s important to recognize that SSE remains a vast and underexplored area. As research into SSE expands, we must ensure it is conducted with integrity and respect for the principles that define the field. This means avoiding manipulative approaches and prioritizing research that genuinely supports SSE actors and produces meaningful, actionable insights
When we began developing our guidelines for non-extractive research, our goal wasn’t just to offer direction to researchers, it was also to reflect on what non-extractive research really means. We drew from traditional research ethics where it made sense, but we also challenged practices we felt were misaligned with the values of the Social Solidarity Economy. It was a chance to take a deeper look at our moral responsibilities as researchers.
We focused on key aspects like how researchers relate to participants, how the research process unfolds, how expectations are set and managed, and how researchers can critically reflect on their own reasoning. These guidelines are intended for members of the RIPESS network, SSE actors beyond our network, and researchers more broadly, anyone who wants to approach research in a way that’s respectful, thoughtful, and aligned with solidarity values.
When we set out to write these guidelines, we started by identifying the topics we felt were most important to include. From there, we worked closely together, sharing drafts, exchanging feedback, and making sure the result reflected not just our shared principles, but also something we could all stand behind. Our goal was to create a resource that’s clear, practical, and flexible enough to apply in different contexts.
To guide our work, we looked at existing guidelines in the Social Solidarity Economy and cooperative sectors, as well as similar resources from other disciplines. We began by identifying what’s essential to avoid extractive research practices and then added what we believe is crucial to support the values and principles at the heart of SSE. Throughout this process, we were also inspired by related approaches, like ethical, participatory, and decolonial research—which share important common ground with non-extractive research.
We made a conscious effort to keep the language simple and accessible. Our aim is to speak to a wide range of people: those with academic research experience, but also SSE actors who may not be familiar with language research or processes. Where needed, we’ve included glossary sections to explain key terms and concepts. In the future, we hope to see the guidelines translated into more languages so they can reach and support even more people.
It’s also important to say that these guidelines are not set in stone. Just as the SSE itself constantly evolves to respond to social and economic changes, we believe that SSE research practices should remain open to growth, adaptation, and feedback.
The structure of this text is divided into two main parts: key considerations and guiding principles. But more than just laying out a list of dos and don’ts, we wanted to share the thinking behind these guidelines. We hope readers will engage with them critically, use them as a tool for reflection, and shape their own understanding of what non-extractive research means in practice. In line with the values of the SSE, we see these guidelines as a living document—always open to improvement, collaboration, and collective learning.
Welcome to send in any comments on the guidelines to socioeco.org@ripess.eu, which will be periodically updated by the RIPESS Knowledge commons circle.
