Analysis of the possibilities of using economic tools as instruments to reduce economic inequalities based on the register of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship

Abstract

Under the conditions of a free-market economy, the creation of economic inequalities is a natural phenomenon, but it is undesirable. Therefore, actions are needed that are effective in minimizing the existing social disparities. The state’s activities in this area are limited and are essentially limited to the redistribution of part of its income in the form of social assistance or social programs, but this does not solve the problem of social inequality. In this situation it is necessary to use instruments that can trigger a mechanism to reduce economic inequalities through social activity. The social economy could become such a solution. The aim of the article is to assess the impact of using the social economy to reduce economic inequalities. The analysis concerns the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. To achieve the assumed goal, the article uses the methods of cause-and-effect analysis, critical literature analysis, non-participating observation and case study analysis. The considerations indicate that the use of the opportunities offered by the social economy may reduce the economic disparities. The implementation of this concept in the practice of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship led to the following conclusions: • institutions for reintegrating institutions – satisfactory, • social enterprises that act as an instrument to reduce economic inequalities – insufficient. Therefore a number of actions have been proposed to improve this situation.