On the first Saturday of July, the International Day of Cooperatives is observed, highlighting the role of cooperatives in social, economic, and cultural development and in achieving the goals of UN social policy. The purpose of the holiday is to raise public awareness about cooperatives and promote international economic solidarity, equality, and efficiency. Every year, the Director-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO) delivers a speech on this day.
History
Cooperatives are associations and enterprises through which people improve their own lives and contribute to the development of the economy, culture, and politics, as well as the social development of society and the nation. For many years, these associations have been responsible for the elimination of poverty and have been stakeholders in the national and international politics of the state. Typically, these enterprises are people-oriented, not profit-oriented, and adhere to the norms of ethics and fairness in matters of concentration of capital.
The International Day of Cooperatives was established by the members of the International Cooperative Alliance and the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1992. The date of the celebration was chosen to coincide with the earlier International Cooperative Day of the International Cooperative Union, which started in 1923.
Interesting Facts
- In 1895, the International Cooperative Alliance began its work in Brussels;
- The United Nations was founded in New York in 1945;
- The father of the cooperative movement is Robert Owen, who believed all workers have the right to work in good conditions, and to have access to education for themselves and their children.
How to Take Part
Cooperatives play a big role in social life, and the International Day of Cooperatives can be devoted to learning more about the history of the cooperative movement. ICA, COPAC, and other cooperative movements can be supported by donations, thereby contributing to the future improvement in the lives of people around the world. You can also become a volunteer and personally deal with some social issues.
When is International Day of Cooperatives in 2024?
International Day of Cooperatives is observed on the first Saturday of July each year.
Observations
Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
Saturday | July | 6 | 2024 |
Saturday | July | 5 | 2025 |
Saturday | July | 4 | 2026 |
Saturday | July | 3 | 2027 |
Saturday | July | 1 | 2028 |
Saturday | July | 7 | 2029 |