The Role of the Third Sector and Voluntary Sector in Addressing Poverty: A Systematic Literature Review
Andrea Gollini
It explores the assigned or assumed role, methods, and practices of the sector and its positioning relative to public agencies and other actors in poverty reduction. Particular attention is paid to volunteer intervention spaces and tasks. The review covers the period 2012-2022, a time marked by shifts in poverty patterns and policy responses due to the global economic crisis. The role of the third sector in combating poverty has expanded during this time. The analysis focuses on studies from countries with advanced economies and democratic political systems, providing insights into broader trends and common challenges faced in different contexts. The findings indicate that the role of the third sector is complex, oscillating between self-referential or oppositional stances toward public agencies and functioning as either an executor or an actor with limited autonomy. Economic logic increasingly shapes social and welfare policies, influencing third-sector dynamics. Volunteer contributions are crucial, especially in identifying and responding informally to emerging needs. However, the practical role of volunteers remains confined to specific areas, primarily food and educational poverty. This review highlights the significance of the third sector in alleviating poverty while emphasizing the need to enhance structured collaboration between the third sector, voluntary organizations, and public authorities.
Keywords
Social work, Poverty, Third sector, Nonprofit organizations, Volunteering.
