The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)'s 2012 Civil Society Prize, which rewards civil society organizations promoting innovative and sustainable economic and social practices, went to Transition Network, with second prize to CAIS and third to Livstycket.
13 December 2012: The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) awarded the 2012 Civil Society Prize to Transition Network for its “REeconomy” initiative, which helps local communities establish green businesses or implement green practices within existing businesses.
EESC’s Civil Society Prize celebrates the achievements of civil society organizations working at European, national, and local levels to make a positive impact on Europeans’ lives. The 2012 prize sought to reward groups that promoted new and sustainable economic and social practices in order to create more inclusive communities. First prize went to Transition Network, a UK-based grassroots organization working in 34 countries. Second prize went to CAIS, a Portuguese organization that works to empower of homeless people and people living in extreme poverty. Third prize went to Livstycket, an association working for the integration of immigrants into Swedish society. [EESC Civil Society Prize Website][EESC Press Release]