Research-Thesis: What role of social economy organizations to enhance the value of care professions? A case study of nursing in Wallonia

Abstract

Nurses are the largest professional group in healthcare and play a central role in ensuring quality and safety of care. Yet, their profession remains undervalued worldwide, reflected in workforce shortages, poor working conditions, limited decision-making power, and persistent gendered and racialized stereotypes. In Belgium, these challenges threaten healthcare system sustainability.

This thesis explores how Social Economy Enterprises (SEEs) can enhance the value of nursing, using a qualitative case study in Wallonia. Value is defined as both tangible (remuneration, working conditions, career opportunities) and intangible (recognition, autonomy, professional image, social usefulness). SEEs, characterized by democratic governance, participatory decision-making, and a strong social mission, may create conditions that improve nurses’ experiences of autonomy, recognition, and meaningful work.

Based on semi-structured interviews with nurses and managers, findings show that SEEs foster participation, supportive leadership, and a sense of professional legitimacy, while limitations remain in financial capacity and career progression. Overall, SEEs offer promising pathways to enhance nursing’s professional value and suggest practical implications for healthcare policy and management.