International Day of Cooperatives

The International Day of Cooperatives, also known as World Cooperative Day, is observed annually on the first Saturday of July. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of cooperatives in promoting sustainable development and social justice.

Cooperatives are organizations that are owned and operated by their members, who share in the profits and decision-making process. They are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. Cooperatives are present in various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, finance, health, education, and energy.

The International Day of Cooperatives was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1995 to recognize the role of cooperatives in economic, social, and cultural development. The theme for each year’s celebration is chosen by the International Cooperative Alliance, which is the global organization representing cooperatives.

The celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives involves various activities such as seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events. The events aim to highlight the achievements of cooperatives, educate the public on the benefits of cooperative enterprises, and promote the formation of new cooperatives.

In summary, the International Day of Cooperatives is a global celebration of the contribution of cooperatives to sustainable development, social justice, and economic growth. It provides an opportunity to recognize the achievements of cooperatives and encourage the formation of new ones.