The global cooperative movement is poised for a transformative year, as the United Nations marks 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives. Speaking on this historic occasion during a press release, Jeroen Douglas, Director-general Cooperative Alliance (ICA), delivered a passionate New Year message celebrating the spirit and impact of cooperatives worldwide.
Reflecting on the significance of the year, Douglas emphasized the vital role cooperatives play in fostering social and economic change. “This year holds a special significance,” he said, “marking again – let’s remember 2012 was the first UN International Year of Cooperatives – a global recognition of cooperatives’ immense contributions towards a more just and equitable world.”
A Beacon Amid Global Challenges
Douglas acknowledged the challenges of the past year, from economic downturns to environmental crises, and lauded the resilience of cooperatives in addressing these issues. “The cooperative spirit has remained steadfast, a beacon of hope in a world that prioritizes profit over people and individualism over the general interest,” he stated.
Highlighting the contributions of cooperatives, he described the movement as a “vibrant tapestry woven from countless threads of cooperation,” encompassing local credit unions, agricultural cooperatives, and large-scale enterprises. Together, he said, these organizations are a “force for good” that empower communities, foster economic growth, and advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Innovating for a Sustainable Future
Douglas urged the cooperative movement to embrace innovation and adapt to global changes. He highlighted emerging trends such as digital cooperatives, platform cooperatives, and social enterprises as examples of the sector’s innovative spirit. “We must explore new business models, embrace digital technologies, and invest in renewable energy,” he said, calling for bold steps to address pressing challenges like housing affordability and environmental sustainability.
In his vision for the future, Douglas stressed inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability as cornerstones of the movement. “Let us strive for a global cooperative movement where all members thrive, where economic growth is driven by social and environmental responsibility, and where cooperation and solidarity are the cornerstones of our interactions.”
Looking Ahead to the 2nd World Summit of Social Development
Douglas also set his sights on the upcoming 2nd World Summit of Social Development, scheduled for November 2025 in Qatar. The event will bring together top cooperative and mutual leaders to unveil the CM50 Charter of a Cooperative Future and a commitment plan to accelerate progress toward the SDGs.
“This summit presents a unique opportunity to showcase the transformative power of the cooperative movement on a global stage,” he noted. “Let us use this platform to amplify our voices, forge new partnerships, and solidify our commitment to building a better world.”
A Call to Action
As the cooperative movement steps into 2025, Douglas called on members to remain steadfast in their mission and embrace the year’s slogan: “Cooperatives build a better world.” “Let us not be afraid to challenge the status quo, to advocate for change, and to build a better future for all,” he urged.
With the cooperative movement’s deep commitment to equity, solidarity, and sustainability, Douglas’ message is a rallying cry for a year that promises to highlight the transformative power of cooperation on a global scale.
