In a major push towards sustainability and community development, cooperatives around the world are setting the stage for the International Year of Cooperatives in 2025. This initiative, declared by the United Nations last year, aims to spotlight the crucial role of cooperatives in building a sustainable future for all.
Cooperatives have long been celebrated for their contribution to social and economic development, with their efforts recognized globally every first Saturday of July since the United Nations General Assembly’s official proclamation in 1995. This year’s theme, “Cooperatives Build a Better Future for All,” marks a significant milestone as the world celebrates the 30th UN International Day of Cooperatives and the 102nd International Cooperative Day, emphasizing the sector’s commitment to just and sustainable global development.
The lead-up to the 2025 celebration gained momentum last November when the UN General Assembly endorsed resolution A/RES/78/175 on cooperatives in social development. This resolution not only set the stage for 2025 but also underscored the vital role of cooperatives in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contributing to economic and social advancement worldwide. It calls upon Member States, the United Nations, and relevant stakeholders to promote the cooperative model and its benefits.
The International Day of Cooperatives, locally known as Ushirika Day, will serve as a pivotal platform to showcase the enduring impact of cooperatives on global efforts to secure a better future for all, underlining their past and present contributions. This aligns with the broader objectives of the UN Summit of the Future, which seeks “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow.”
The 2023 UN Secretary-General’s Report on Cooperatives in Social Development highlighted the consistent resilience and economic and social inclusivity of the cooperative model, even in times of crisis. Recognized as a key partner in the global pursuit of sustainable development, the cooperative movement is urged to strengthen its entrepreneurial ecosystems to enhance its social, economic, and environmental impact.
As we approach the International Year of Cooperatives in 2025, the world looks to cooperatives to continue their tradition of innovation, resilience, and community-driven development, setting a global example for sustainable progress.
