International Day of Cooperatives
International Day of Cooperatives or International Cooperative Day, also known as CoopsDay, is celebrated every year on the first Saturday of July.
This global event recognizes the contributions of cooperatives in making the world a better, fairer, and more sustainable place.
The celebration first began in 1923 and gained international recognition when the United Nations officially declared it a global observance in 1995.
Since then, CoopsDay has been marked by millions of people around the world, bringing attention to the cooperative movement and its positive impact on social and economic development.
Theme For International Day of Cooperatives 2025
The official theme for the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives is “Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World.”
This year’s theme highlights the unique role cooperatives play in solving today’s most pressing global challenges.
In a world facing climate change, inequality, job insecurity, and economic instability, cooperatives offer practical solutions that are both inclusive and sustainable.
Whether it’s supporting local farmers, providing affordable housing, or promoting clean energy, co-ops work at the grassroots level to build long-term change that benefits everyone, not just a select few.
What are Cooperatives
A cooperative or co-op is a group of people who come together voluntarily to meet common needs, whether that’s buying goods, accessing credit, farming, or providing services.
The key difference between a co-op and a traditional business is that members own and control the organization democratically, often following the rule of “one member, one vote.”
Cooperatives operate based on seven core principles, including:
- Voluntary and open membership
- Democratic member control
- Member economic participation
- Autonomy and independence
- Education, training, and information
- Cooperation among cooperatives
- Concern for community
These principles guide co-ops in putting people and communities first. Cooperatives exist in nearly every country and across various sectors such as:
- Agriculture
- Banking and credit unions
- Housing
- Healthcare
- Education
- Renewable energy
- Retail and groceries
Benefits of Cooperatives
- Cooperatives generate employment and often offer fair wages along with improved working conditions.
- They contribute to poverty reduction by addressing local needs and helping people achieve financial empowerment.
- Cooperatives promote equality by supporting gender fairness, workers' rights, and democratic decision-making.
- Cooperatives support sustainability by using eco-friendly practices and caring for the environment over time.
Observing International Day of Cooperatives
Observing the International Day of Cooperatives can be both meaningful and impactful, regardless of whether you belong to a co-op.
One of the simplest ways to take part is by supporting a local cooperative.
This could mean shopping at a cooperative grocery store, visiting a co-op café, or purchasing goods from a local cooperative farm.
Your support contributes directly to the livelihood of members and helps promote the cooperative model in your community.
Another way to observe the day is by educating yourself and those around you about how cooperatives function and the values they uphold.
You might read articles, watch videos, or attend educational events that explain the principles of cooperation and democratic member control.
Sharing this knowledge with friends, family, or coworkers can help raise awareness and spark conversations that inspire action.
Many communities organize public events in celebration of CoopsDay, such as fairs, lectures, and exhibitions.
Attending these events allows you to connect with cooperative members, learn about their work, and discover how co-ops are addressing local and global issues.
Engaging in these gatherings helps strengthen community bonds and highlights the power of collective effort.
Social media can also play a role in observing this day. Sharing stories, articles, or personal experiences related to cooperatives can amplify their impact and reach a wider audience.
Using campaign hashtags allows your voice to join a global conversation and encourages others to learn more about the cooperative movement.
Even small acts matter. Whether it’s choosing a cooperative product, attending a local event, or simply spreading awareness, each step contributes to a broader mission.
The International Day of Cooperatives is an opportunity to recognize the vital role these organizations play in promoting equality, sustainability, and community wellbeing.
