International Day of Cooperatives

International Cooperative Day, celebrated on the first Saturday of July each year, is a special occasion to reflect on the crucial role that cooperatives play in economic, social and environmental development. This day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, highlights the importance of cooperatives as agents of change that promote solidarity, equity and sustainability.

History and Evolution of Cooperatives

Cooperatives have deep roots dating back to the 19th century, when they emerged as a response to the social and economic injustices of the Industrial Revolution. The co-operative movement was driven by visionary thinkers such as Robert Owen and the Rochdale Pioneers, who advocated the creation of organizations based on the principles of mutual aid, responsibility, equity and democratic participation.

Cooperatives, in their beginnings, focused mainly on satisfying the basic needs of their members, such as housing, food and work. Over time, this model expanded to other sectors, including agriculture, credit, health and education. Agricultural cooperatives, for example, allowed farmers to band together to access better markets and resources, thus strengthening the position of small producers against large corporations.

Cooperative Principles

The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) established seven cooperative principles that serve as a guide for the operation of these organizations. These principles, last revised in 1995, are:

• Voluntary and open membership : Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all people capable of using their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership without discrimination.
• Democratic member control: Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in decision making and policy setting.
• Member economic participation: Members contribute equally to the capital of the cooperative and democratically control this capital. Part of that capital may generally be the common property of the cooperative.
• Autonomy and independence: Cooperatives are autonomous entities, which are managed independently and in collaboration with other organizations, following cooperative principles.
• Education, training and information: Cooperatives promote the education and training of their members, as well as the dissemination of information about the cooperative movement and its benefits.
• Cooperation among cooperatives: Cooperatives better serve their members and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.
• Commitment to the community: Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.

These founding principles reflect the very essence of cooperatives and underline their commitment to equity, participation and long-term sustainability.

Impact of Cooperatives on Sustainable Development

Cooperatives play a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. Some of the SDGs directly aligned with the values and objectives of cooperatives include the eradication of poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and reducing inequalities (SDG 10).

In the area of poverty eradication, cooperatives have proven to be effective instruments in empowering marginalized communities. By providing access to resources and services, such as microcredit and education, cooperatives help break the cycle of poverty and improve living conditions.

In the agricultural sector, cooperatives play an essential role in promoting food security and zero hunger. They allow farmers to share knowledge, resources and technologies, thereby improving productivity and efficiency. Additionally, by working together, farmers can access broader markets and obtain better prices for their products.

Cooperatives and Women Empowerment

A notable aspect of the positive impact of cooperatives is their contribution to the empowerment of women. In many parts of the world, women face significant economic and social challenges. Cooperatives offer an inclusive model that allows women to actively participate in decision-making and access resources that might otherwise be out of their reach.

In agricultural cooperatives, for example, women often play a key role in food production and marketing. The training and support provided by cooperatives helps improve women's skills and confidence, creating a transformative impact on their lives and communities.

Current Challenges and Opportunities

Although cooperatives have proven to be resilient and effective over the years, they face challenges in the contemporary world. Globalization, technological changes and economic pressures can affect the viability of some cooperatives. However, there are also emerging opportunities that can strengthen the cooperative movement.

Digitalization, for example, offers new forms of connection and collaboration between cooperatives and their members. Online platforms facilitate the management of information, the promotion of products and services, and the active participation of members in decision-making. Additionally, growing interest in sustainability and social responsibility presents opportunities for cooperatives to highlight and expand their impact. Consumers are increasingly seeking ethical and sustainable options, and cooperatives, with their founding principles, are well positioned to meet those demands.

Case Studies: Cooperatives That Make a Difference

To illustrate the tangible impact of cooperatives, let's consider some case studies from around the world.

Credit Unions in Latin America: Credit unions in Latin America have been instrumental in providing financial services to underserved communities. By allowing access to loans and banking services, these cooperatives have contributed to improving the economic stability of numerous families.

Renewable Energy Cooperatives in Europe: In countries such as Denmark and Germany, renewable energy cooperatives have led the transition to more sustainable energy sources. Citizens come together to finance and manage solar, wind and other forms of clean energy projects, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Consumer Cooperatives in Asia: Consumer cooperatives in Asia have played a vital role in providing quality food at fair prices. By working directly with local farmers, these cooperatives ensure that producers receive adequate compensation and that consumers have access to fresh, healthy food.

As the world faces increasingly complex challenges, the cooperative model is presented as a solid and viable alternative. Collaboration, democracy and commitment to the well-being of communities are the pillars on which cooperatives are built. In a future that demands sustainable and inclusive solutions, the cooperative movement continues to be a beacon of hope and an engine of positive change.