Social responsibility clauses in public procurement: from compliance to strategy

Article by Fabrizio Magrì.

Social clauses are becoming increasingly central in public procurement. Once simple tools for safeguarding employment, they are now evolving into strategic levers to promote equal opportunities, inclusion, and social sustainability.

Recent reforms to the Public Procurement Code, along with its implementing amendments, have made social clauses a mandatory requirement for contracting authorities—and, as a result, for companies wishing to take part in public tenders.

To remain competitive in this new landscape, businesses must demonstrate not only financial and technical soundness, but also the ability to create social value.