International Day of Cooperatives - 1st Saturday of July

Tags: Important Days

The International Day of Cooperatives is observed annually on the first Saturday of July.

An Overview of the News

• In 2024, it falls on 6 July. This marks the 102nd InternationalCooperative Day and the 30th UN International Day of Cooperatives.

• The theme for the International Day of Cooperatives 2024 is "Cooperatives Building a Better Future for All."

Significance and History:

• The International Cooperative Day has been celebrated since 1923, initially observed on 7 July.

• In December 1992, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted resolution A/RES/47/90, proclaiming the first Saturday of July each year as the International Day of Cooperatives.

• This resolution commemorated the centenary of the establishment of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), one of the oldest and largest NGOs representing cooperative movements globally.

Objectives:

• The day aims to increase awareness of cooperatives and their contributions to international solidarity, economic efficiency, equality, and world peace.

• It emphasizes the role of cooperatives in social and economic development, promoting sustainable practices and community empowerment.

International Cooperative Alliance (ICA):

• The ICA, founded in 1895, plays a pivotal role in advancing cooperative principles worldwide.

• It represents millions of cooperative enterprises and members across various sectors, advocating for cooperative values and principles.