Supported by the EU Horizons Program, COZZ joins a consortium of 8 European social research organizations to advocate for participatory and equitable social services in the 2023-2026 INVOLVE project. The team not only research workers’ and citizens’ engagement in society, but also actively promotes their coordinated action and empowerment.
The INVOLVE project began in 2023 on the basis of three research questions:
- What is the nature of the relationship between the welfare state, public and social services, and policies aimed at tackling inequalities, on the one hand, and trust and participation of individuals in their democracy, on the other? The team doesn’t view the question narrowly about voting, but rather includes all forms of voluntary activities by citizens that are aimed at bringing about political change.
- How do different kinds of inequalities influence political participation, democratic legitimacy, and the structure of democratic representation?
- How can more inclusive public and social services strengthen trust and democratic engagement of vulnerable citizens?
The team of INVOLVE has built a dynamic perspective of the relationship between inequalities and democratic support and participation. They found steeply declining levels of public trust in high-level political institutions, particularly in southern Europe. They discovered pessimism and disengagement at the broadest levels of government, but active engagement and trust in local services and immediate, local government. The team also examined differences in political engagement taking into account individual level characteristics (age, gender, social class, level of education, migration status), and making cross-country and cross-region (urban-rural) comparisons.
Within The context of this project, COZZ engaged older women workers in the elder care services industry in Poland. A marginalized group of low-wage earners, many from migrant backgrounds, many working multiple jobs, and often with their own dependents as well, these women reflect a population that has little time or extra income for civic activities or even to advocate for their own interests. COZZ carried out numerous meetings with these workers, but not only for the purpose of social research. Consistent with the goals of the INVOLVE project, COZZ supported these women to articulate their demands, to come together in a union, and to make collective demands for fair pay and equitable working conditions.
But the team doesn’t stop there. Through the INVOLVE project, the team connects vulnerable citizens with political and public decision-makers and NGOs who advocate for them. In November 2024, for example, COZZ brought leadership from the Care Workers’ Union to meet with Poland’s Minister of Labour and Social Protection. This was a unique opportunity to have their voices heard.
In June 2025, Emeis workers joined hands again to demand a wage increase and improvements in working conditions. COZZ has been proud to support this brave group of women workers.