1. An Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship and Migrants’ Inclusion in the Adriatic-Ionian Region

The twenty-first century has been called the “century of migration” thanks to a notable increase in intercontinental movement. Indeed, the last decade has seen escalating numbers of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees that have substantially elevated the overall immigrant demographic. This trend could transform societies across the globe: On the one hand, migration is emblematic of the modern open society and thus a top priority on international agendas [Massey et al. Population and Development Review, 19(3), 431–466 (1993).]; on the other, it poses significant social and economic concerns. For instance, Greece experienced an influx of more than one million refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in 2015 and early 2016—a number that declined after the closure of the Balkan border in March 2016. However, the Eastern Mediterranean route remains active, with many individuals entering Europe annually for various reasons, including international protection, family reunion, economic opportunities, and education. Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, reported that the Western Balkan route was the second-most-used path to Europe in 2021, with detections of illegal border crossings more than doubling to a total of 61,735. Consequently, the arrival and inclusion of refugees and other migrants in host societies represent significant challenges for both EU member states and non-member (transition) states, especially those in the Adriatic-Ionian region.