Brazil will be the guest country at the 2nd ASETT Forum 2026, which will take place on 12–13 November 2026 in Donostia / San Sebastián, further establishing the event as a leading international forum on the Social Economy and economic transformation.
The ASETT Forum aims to showcase, examine and share initiatives that contribute to reducing inequalities, promoting social and labour market inclusion, and advancing a more just, inclusive and sustainable economy. Following the success of its inaugural edition, held at the Kursaal in May 2025, the Forum has established itself as a key platform for dialogue and cooperation between public institutions, knowledge centres, social movements and economic actors.
The 2026 edition will hold particular significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the legacy of José María Arizmendiarrieta, who passed away in November 1976. Against this backdrop, the Forum will continue to focus on presenting local and international experiences that contribute to strengthening social cohesion and reducing inequalities.
As the guest country, Brazil will play a central role in this second edition, bringing its extensive experience in the Social Economy, cooperativism, social movements, academic research and innovative public policies. The Brazilian delegation will showcase initiatives that are providing valuable responses to social and economic challenges on a global scale.
As part of the preparations for the ASETT Forum 2026, ASETT representatives have held a series of institutional meetings with officials from the Government of Brazil, including a meeting with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who expressed interest in the initiative and its growing international profile.
Gilberto Carvalho, Brazil’s Secretary for the Social and Solidarity Economy, announces Brazil’s participation as the guest country in this video: ASETT Forum II – Brazil, Guest Country.
The Forum will also showcase projects and initiatives developed through ASETT’s Think Tank, Foresight Institute and Social Lab, highlighting applied research and innovative solutions designed to generate tangible social and economic impact.
ASETT is an initiative promoted by the Government of Spain, the Basque Government, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa, the Donostia / San Sebastián City Council, CEPES, the Higher Council of Cooperatives of the Basque Country, and the MONDRAGON Corporation, and is headquartered at Miramar Palace.
Over the coming months, we will share the full Forum programme and registration details.
