International Day of Co-operatives

01 July 2017

Today, 1 July, is the 95th International Day of Co-operatives.

The message from the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) on this day is that “[a]t a time when income inequality is rising around the world, it is good to remember that solutions for inequality exist. The co-operative model is foremost among these.

“Its internationally agreed definition, principles and values set it apart from all other forms of entrepreneurial organisations. Those principles state that membership in a co-operative is open without discrimination to all people who accept the requirements of membership.”

The ICA calls on co-operatives around the world to, therefore, redouble efforts to ensure open membership and inclusiveness and to pledge to reach the sustainable development goals.

Read the full ICA media release