The New Italian code of the third sector: Essence and principles of a historic legislative reform

In 2017, a new law on third sector organizations, including social enterprises, was introduced in Italy. Known as "the Reform of the third sector", this legislation is based on a Code of the third sector which introduces a new legal qualification or status, namely that of a "third sector entity", which is available to organizations that meet the expected legal requirements. The status of third sector entity confers upon the organization that holds it not only fiscal benefits, but also other benefits. After having highlighted the constitutional relevance of third sector organizations, this chapter presents and discusses the notion of a third sector organization and the particular typologies thereof, including that of social enterprise. The chapter then describes the promotional treatment awarded to third sector organizations and the aims and forms of public control to which third sector organizations are subject. Conclusions follow.