Based on the research conducted to date, an initial observation can be made: The European Third Sector is extremely diversified as a direct result of its close ties with its domestic and social environment, as well as with the nature of its activities.  In addition, mational and local policies, the nature and penetration of business, as well as welfare and religious institutions have directly impacted upon the shape and strength of the Third Sector across Europe.

 

Some broad historical developments can be identified, both in terms of the recent growth of Third Sector forms as well as more established traditions. Prior to 1989, the Polish state prevented the full development of Third Sector  organisations although a once independent and strong co-operative movement that was incorporated into state provisions.  Since 1989, there has been a period of privatisation and liberalisation, and the country is still in a period of adjustment.  There is also a limited awareness of the Third Sector in Greece, which is an undeveloped, but growing element of the economy and society.

 

By contrast, since 1977, with the return of democracy in Spain, successive governments have consciously followed a policy of significant growth in the Third Sector, especially in welfare activities such as health and education.  In Italy, the co-operative movement has played an important role and there has also been a recent expansion in social co-operatives and a range of non-profit organisations.  In the UK, despite the traditional marginalisation of the Third Sector, recent years have seen its gradual incorporation into key policy areas as well as the rebirth of co-operative and mutual enterprises.  However, national differences do not always adequately explain the diversity of the Third Sector.  Few countries have an equal distribution of Third Sector organisations and regional differences of policy and organisation are significant features of most countries; in part these reflect social and economic conditions.  For instance, between the North and South of Italy, between particular urban areas in Britain where quite noticeable variations can be detected, or in certain regions of Spain where co-operatives such as Mondragon have seen significant developments over recent years.