Paving the Way for a Sustainable Cooperative Future
On October 17, 2024, the Idée Coopérative Genossenschaft (ICG) hosted the first Idée Coopérative Congress in Bern, Switzerland. This landmark event, organized within the network of the IRU member organisation Raiffeisen Schweiz brought together around 300 cooperative leaders, policymakers, and experts under the theme, “Together Strong into the Future.” The congress emphasized the importance of sustainable practices, social impact, and the evolution of the cooperative model in response to today’s global challenges.
A distinguished lineup of 18 national and international speakers shared insights and strategies to strengthen and advance the cooperative movement. Notable figures included Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, former German Minister of Economic Affairs Peter Altmaier, and historian Beatrice Schumacher, among others. Their presentations underscored the essential role cooperatives play in today’s world by promoting efficient resource allocation, fostering accessibility, and bridging social gaps. Leading voices like Finnish management professor Anu Puusa, Austrian economist Christian Felber and former IRU Board Member Hilmar Gernet provided further guidance on how cooperatives can adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. They highlighted cooperatives’ unique ability to shape sustainable economic and social futures through resilient ownership structures and long-term strategies.
The congress also celebrated a transition in leadership within the ICG, as Henrik Schoop officially handed over his position as ICG Managing Director to Elias Maier, who will take up the role in December 2024. Under Maier’s direction, ICG aims to further its role as a center of expertise for Swiss cooperatives, fostering both inter-cooperative exchange and membership growth. Established five years ago, Idée Coopérative has grown to 139 members and has expanded its activities to the French-speaking region of Switzerland.
Over the past five years, Switzerland has seen the creation of 460 new cooperatives, a testament to the model’s adaptability to modern challenges. From housing and food to music, gastronomy, and education, these new cooperatives are responding to evolving needs across the country, particularly in urban areas. Historically significant sectors like retail, finance, energy, agriculture, and construction continue to shape the Swiss cooperative landscape, demonstrating the movement’s enduring impact and relevance.
The IRU is proud to see Raiffeisen Schweiz and ICG spearheading discussions that reinforce cooperative values and celebrate the movement’s contributions to economic and social stability. As the UN International Year of Cooperatives approaches in 2025, events like the Idée Coopérative Congress play a vital role in highlighting the cooperative model as a solution to many of today’s critical issues.
For images and further information on the congress, visit www.genossenschaftskongress.ch.

©Photographer Ruben Ung / Idée Coopérative Congress – ICG