United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025

United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025: The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC 2025), reaffirming the role of cooperatives in building inclusive, sustainable, and equitable economies. With the official theme — “Cooperatives Build a Better World” — IYC 2025 aims to highlight the significant contributions of cooperatives toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in rural development, gender equality, social justice, and climate action.

What Is the International Year of Cooperatives?

The International Year of Cooperatives is a special global observance proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to promote the cooperative model as a key driver for sustainable and equitable growth.
The first IYC was celebrated in 2012, and now in 2025, the world again comes together to recognize the growing relevance of cooperatives in today’s global challenges.

Theme of IYC 2025: “Cooperatives Build a Better World”

The 2025 theme underscores the transformative power of cooperatives to:

• Tackle poverty and inequality

• Promote ethical business models

• Empower communities through democratic governance

• Drive climate resilience and sustainability

This aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, making cooperatives essential partners in global progress.

Objectives of International Year of Cooperatives 2025

1. Raise public awareness about cooperatives and their socio-economic impact

2. Promote growth and innovation within cooperative enterprises

3. Encourage governments to adopt cooperative-friendly policies

4. Foster global partnerships among cooperatives

5. Highlight youth and women empowerment in cooperative movements

Role of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) is playing a central role in coordinating global events and programs. It is working with national governments, UN agencies, and member cooperatives to:

• Organize global conferences, expos, and knowledge-sharing events

• Support digital transformation in cooperatives

• Promote cooperative education and capacity-building

• Publish reports showcasing best practices across regions

India’s Celebrations and Contributions

India has launched one of the most ambitious campaigns globally for IYC 2025 under the leadership of the Ministry of Cooperation. Key highlights include:

Launch by Prime Minister Modi

PM Narendra Modi launched the IYC 2025 initiative during the ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024, showcasing India’s leadership in the global cooperative movement.

National Action Plan

India released a year-long action plan, including:

• Foundation stones for 25 PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Society) godowns

• Inauguration of Tribhuvan Sahkari University, India’s first cooperative university

• National conferences with state ministers and cooperative stakeholders

• Mass outreach via government portals, Railways e-tickets, product packaging (e.g., Amul), and sports broadcasts

Public Campaigns

India launched multiple campaigns such as:

• “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” – a plantation drive

• “Swachhta me Sahkar” – cleanliness and sustainability efforts

• Youth and Women Empowerment Drives

• District & State Cooperative Fairs

Cooperatives and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Cooperatives play a crucial role in addressing key SDGs:

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