The aim of this survey was to analyze the role and activities of non-profit groups whose objective is to reduce the impact of various social risks which affect members and their families: sickness, work incapacity following illness or accident, disability, old age, death etc. In many countries, this description applies to the organizations known as "mutual benefit societies". These organizations combine two basic principles: insurance and solidarity.

The analysis covered industrialized countries and those in transition as well as developing countries. The questionnaire was designed for a network of specialists working in the field of private non-profit social protection organizations or with special knowledge of the latter's activities in their respective countries.