In October, IRU members from around the world gathered in Vienna for an inspiring two-day programme hosted by the Österreichischer Raiffeisenverband (ÖRV). The meeting brought together cooperative leaders, experts, and representatives from across the IRU network to exchange experiences, strengthen international ties, and reflect on the future of the cooperative movement.
The gathering began with a warm and lively evening at the traditional Gasthaus Zu den 3 Hacken, where participants enjoyed Austrian hospitality, good food, and stimulating conversations. This informal start set the perfect tone for the rich programme that followed.
The official IRU Day at the ÖRV headquarters opened on the 19th floor with a welcome address by Generalanwalt Erwin Hameseder, who highlighted the global relevance of cooperatives and the importance of strong international cooperation. In recognition of his longstanding commitment to the cooperative movement, IRU President Guy Hoffmann and Secretary General Andreas Kappes presented him with the IRU Raiffeisen Medal.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of inspiring contributions:
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Roland de Vries (Rabobank, Netherlands) offered forward-looking insights into how generative AI is beginning to support member-driven decision-making in cooperatives. He showed how AI tools can help analyse complex information, better understand member needs, and strengthen transparenc – while stressing that technology must reinforce, not replace, cooperative values and democratic processes.
During the Member Voices – Walk & Talk session, representatives from ACCU (Thailand), Raiffeisen Südtirol (Italy), and Fecoprod Ltda. (Paraguay) shared perspectives on cooperative identity, member engagement, and their activities within the International Year of Cooperatives 2025. Their contributions highlighted how Raiffeisen principles take shape in diverse cultural and organisational contexts, from financial inclusion in Asia to regional resilience in Europe and agricultural innovation in Latin America.
Dr. Subrahmanyam Bhima, President of the International Cooperative Banking Association (ICBA), presented current developments in cooperative banking, emphasising regulatory trends, digital transformation, and the continued importance of member-focused financial services.
Prof. Hans Groeneveld (Netherlands) introduced the new Raiffeisen Ambassador Advanced leadership programme, explaining how its focus on the Dimensions of Cooperative Identity equips cooperative leaders to translate cooperative principles into modern, effective practice across the IRU network.
A guided walking tour through Vienna’s historic old town—uncovering hidden corners and stories—provided an atmospheric close to this day of learning and exchange. The evening concluded with networking above Vienna’s rooftops, continuing the spirit of cooperation in a relaxed setting.
The IRU expresses its sincere gratitude to Erwin Hameseder, Johannes Rehulka, Manuel Hanselmann, and the entire ÖRV team for their outstanding hospitality and flawless organisation.
The gathering showcased the strength of international cooperation within the IRU family – and the shared commitment to advancing the Raiffeisen spirit across continents.
