The Economy of Francesco

The Economy of Francesco is a global movement and initiative that brings together young economists, entrepreneurs, and change-makers to discuss and develop new models of economic thinking and practice, inspired by the values and teachings of Pope Francis of Assisi. 

Pope Francis has consistently called for “a better kind of politics” in response to the growing global economic inequality, environmental degradation, and the shortcomings of the dominant neoliberal economic model. The Economy of Francesco was inspired by Pope Francis’s invitation to a gathering in 2019 to address the need for a more inclusive and humane economic system. The event was originally scheduled to take place in Assisi, Italy, in March 2020, but it was postponed and subsequently held online in November 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, a network of young economists and entrepreneurs continues to collaborate on projects, research, and initiatives to reimagine economic paradigms that prioritise people and the planet over profit and growth. 

The movement has organised several events, workshops, and conferences bringing together thousands of participants from diverse backgrounds and regions. These gatherings have facilitated the exchange of ideas, best practices, and collaborative projects that highlight the need for intergenerational equity and amplify the voices, perspectives and initiatives of participants in shaping the future of the global economy. 

These initiatives have also produced a wealth of research, policy proposals, and educational resources aimed at influencing public discourse and policy-making. By empowering a new generation of economists and change-makers, the Economy of Francesco seeks to inspire long-term change in economic thinking and practice.