DICES

About the project

DICES is a Horizon Europe research project that examines how the social economy—such as cooperatives, mutuals, and non-profit organisations—can improve working conditions and inclusion in the care sector. The project analyses how democratic governance and worker participation influence job quality, gender equality, and access to care services.

Through comparative research, case studies, and stakeholder engagement across Europe, DICES develops a conceptual framework and mapping of the social economy, analyses policy and regulatory environments, and tests innovative practices through local pilot experiments, including in “left-behind” regions. The project produces models explaining the impact of democratic governance, along with policy recommendations, best-practice guidelines, research papers, policy briefs, webinars, and practical toolkits to strengthen inclusive and sustainable care systems in Europe.