Inclusion: Theme of the 2017 International Day of Co-operatives

Co-operators around the world will celebrate the theme of inclusion on 1 July 2017 during the United Nations International Day of Co-operatives. 

"Co-operatives ensure no one is left behind", is the slogan of the 2017 International Day of Co-operatives. 

The theme was selected by the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Co-operatives (COPAC), which the Alliance currently chairs.

Inclusion not only captures the people-focused nature of co-operative enterprises, but also echoes the co-operative principles of voluntary and open membership, democratic member control and member economic participation. Co-operatives provide a space where all people, regardless of race, gender, culture, social background or economic circumstance, can meet their needs and build better communities.

The theme of inclusion additionally complements the Alliance’s Global Conference theme: “Putting people at the centre of development”. The Global Conference will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 15-16 November 2017.

COPAC will organise the celebration of the International Day of Co-operatives at the United Nations in mid-July during the High-level Political Forum for Sustainable Development, during which governments and UN officials will convene to review implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Should you be interested in attending the UN celebration, please contact Fran McCrae at mccrae@ica.coop.