On 4 July 2026, cooperatives around the globe will celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives (#CoopsDay) under the theme “Cooperatives for a Peaceful World.” The theme highlights the important role cooperatives play in strengthening dialogue, solidarity, resilience and peaceful cooperation within and across societies.
Celebrated annually on the first Saturday of July, the International Day of Cooperatives has been observed by the international cooperative movement since 1923 and has officially been recognised by the United Nations since 1995. The day raises global awareness about the contribution of cooperatives to sustainable development, social inclusion and democratic participation.
This year’s theme comes at a time of increasing geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and social fragmentation worldwide. In this context, cooperatives continue to demonstrate how member-based and values-driven organisations can build bridges between people, strengthen local communities and promote long-term stability and trust. According to the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), the 2026 theme underlines the role of cooperatives as “bridge-builders” fostering dialogue and resilience in an increasingly fragmented world.
For the IRU, the International Day of Cooperatives is also an important occasion to highlight the continued relevance of Raiffeisen principles such as self-help, self-administration and self-responsibility. Across the IRU network, member organisations contribute every day to strengthening cooperative structures, democratic participation and economic inclusion in their respective countries and communities.
The IRU warmly encourages all member organisations and partners to actively participate in #CoopsDay2026 and to share examples of how cooperatives contribute to peaceful, inclusive and sustainable societies.
Further information on the International Day of Cooperatives and this year’s theme can be found here:
- International Day of Cooperatives – Official CoopsDay Website
- United Nations – International Day of Cooperatives
- International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) – 2026 Theme Announcement
The official CoopsDay2026 Logos can be downloaded here: 2026 CoopsDay logo
