Every year, the International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated on the first Saturday of July. This global event highlights the cooperative model, in which members, who are both users and providers, share responsibilities and make democratic decisions. This day highlights the importance of cooperatives in improving living conditions, strengthening economies and promoting social empowerment.
The Essence and Scope of Cooperatives Cooperatives are autonomous businesses managed by their members, who may be employees, consumers, or producers. This business model is particularly widespread in the sectors of agriculture, credit, housing, the distribution of consumer products and more recently in health services and renewable energies.
The economic impact of cooperatives
Contribution to global GDP Cooperatives play a significant role in the global economy. They directly employ more than 280 million people, or nearly 10% of the world’s working population. According to data from the International Cooperative Alliance, the combined turnover of the world’s 300 largest cooperatives exceeds $2 trillion annually.
- Reduction of Inequalities : cooperatives contribute to a more equitable distribution of wealth and to the reduction of income inequalities.
- Stability : they offer increased resistance to economic fluctuations, compared to other forms of business.
Social contributions and sustainability
Fight against poverty Cooperatives are particularly effective in reaching marginalized populations and providing sustainable solutions to poverty. They enable their members to create value together, ensuring equitable access to resources and economic opportunities.
Promotion of Environmental Sustainability Cooperatives, by their democratic nature and oriented towards service to their members rather than maximum profit, tend to adopt more environmentally friendly practices. They therefore play an essential role in the transition towards green and sustainable economies.
Challenges and perspectives
Adaptation to New Technologies To remain competitive, cooperatives must integrate new technologies, which represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Technological innovation can help these companies improve their efficiency and expand their reach.
Capacity Building Strengthening the capacities of members is essential to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of cooperatives. This includes continuing education and the development of management and entrepreneurship skills.
The International Day of Cooperatives on 6 July 2024 celebrates the resilience and diversity of this unique business model. By promoting the principles of cooperation, equity and democracy, cooperatives demonstrate that it is possible to reconcile economic efficiency and social justice. This day is a reminder that cooperatives are not just businesses; they are communities of people united by shared values and common aspirations for a better future.
