Today, we join the global community in celebrating the International Day of Cooperatives #CoopsDay, a day that highlights the enduring principles of cooperation. At the IRU – International Raiffeisen Union, we proudly embrace this occasion to highlight our timeless #cooperative values and principles as championed by Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen.
They are the cornerstone of our cooperative movement, emphasizing the power of self-help, self-administration, self-responsibility, solidarity, and sustainable development. They have guided us in building a global network of cooperative organizations committed to those principles and values and to fostering economic resilience, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
On this significant day, we recognize the profound impact that cooperatives have had worldwide. By promoting democratic decision-making, equitable participation, and mutual support, cooperatives have transformed communities and empowered individuals. They have created opportunities for fair markets, access to financial services, education, and cooperative entrepreneurship, enabling individuals to improve their lives and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
At IRU, we are dedicated to advancing these cooperative principles and values. Through initiatives such as the Raiffeisen Ambassador training program, we empower the next generation of cooperators with the knowledge and skills to carry forward Raiffeisen’s ideas into the future.
On this International Day of Cooperatives, let us celebrate the achievements of cooperatives globally and recommit ourselves to the spirit of cooperation. Together, we can build resilient communities, promote economic empowerment, and create a more just and sustainable world!
