CM50 a new global network of cooperative and mutual leaders

04 February 2025

Source: International Cooperative Alliance media release

On 22 January, the soft launch meeting of the Cooperatives and Mutuals Leadership Circle (CM50) was held, bringing together 35 cooperative and mutual leaders from across the globe, many from the World Cooperative Monitor list. This gathering marks the launch of a dedicated effort by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) to expand the cooperative and mutuals market share as part of the UN 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development and beyond. Leveraging the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), the CM50 first aim is to present a Charter and a Commitment Plan during the Second UN World Summit of Social Development (WSSD2) to be held from 4 to 6 November, in Doha, Qatar.

The CM50 CEOs will champion the cooperative and mutual business model on the global stage, showcasing its potential to accelerate on the SDGs.

“The turnout on the first gathering exceeded my expectations, with leaders from over 20 countries expressing the joint urgency to show their collective strength in a world that is rapidly losing its moral compass. CM50 can be our own Davos, as a response to the global oligarchy of the super wealthy that threatens democracy, peace and economic inclusion. This is the time to show the world that another model is possible – a model that deserves a larger share of the global economy. The ICA is proud to host CM50.” Jeroen Douglas, Director-General of the ICA.

CM50 objectives and vision

Through the presentation of a Charter and a Commitment Plan in Doha during the WSSD2 and closing of the IYC2025, Leaders express their intention that the International Year is the starting point of a joint collaborative project to:

• Foster growth and innovation: Build a network of C-suite leaders from cooperatives and mutuals worldwide to share best practices, drive innovation, and facilitate sector-wide growth and collaboration;
• Advocate for national commitments: Encourage governments to support and expand cooperative and mutual businesses, inspired by examples like the UK Government’s pledge to double its cooperative sector;
• Influence global policy outcomes: Use the World Social Summit as a platform to position the cooperative and mutual business model as a key solution to global challenges.
• Promote cooperatives as catalysts: Highlight cooperatives’ vital contributions to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advocating for a cooperative-driven vision for a fairer and more sustainable future.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment from the CM50 leaders to work collectively to amplify the visibility, impact, and influence of cooperatives and mutuals, ensuring the cooperative business model is recognised as a key force in shaping a more just and inclusive global economy.