In the article, we analyse the impact of changing policy environments on the development of the third sector in Europe. Based on the results of systematic comparative research in eight European countries

The welfare state takes a stand against the demands of modernization by seeking to care for society’s most vulnerable groups. People with disabilities are in a particularly vulnerable position, facing numerous obstacles to the labor market. Social enterprises, especially work integration social enterprises (WISE), can provide an important access point for their integration. The present analysis of five post-socialist countries in the European Union – Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and Croatia – identifies several general characteristics essential for WISE development, such as the existence of some form of financing as well as certain legislative and institutional frameworks that remain underdeveloped. Lack of awareness and promotion of WISEs as well as a shortage of necessary skills have delayed WISE development in these countries, particularly in Croatia, where WISEs are few with small numbers of employees. This study provides recommendations for improving the situation of WISEs in Croatia in order to help them facilitate the employment and social inclusion of people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

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