International Day of the Cooperatives 2025 – Hybrid UN Event

Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World

With the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals fast approaching and global challenges mounting – from poverty to climate crisis – the cooperative movement stands ready to deliver real, people focused solutions. This year’s event will spotlight the role of cooperatives in building resilient communities, advancing decent work, and championing inclusive economic growth.

Programme Highlights:

Opening Remarks from UN and government representatives, including the Permanent Representatives of Mongolia and Kenya, and the NYC Commissioner for Small Business Services.

Panel One:
Insights from the United Nations Federal Credit Union’s global sustainability efforts, featuring leaders from:

• Donore Credit Union (Ireland)
• Vancity (Canada)
• World Council of Credit Unions (Costa Rica)

Panel Two:
Cooperatives for a Sustainable Future – a look at how local governments can support cooperative development, with lessons from New York City’s Worker Cooperative Business Development Initiative.

This event is hosted by COPAC, in collaboration with the United Nations Federal Credit Union and the New York City Department of Small Business Services.

Objectives:

• Champion the cooperative model as a force for social inclusion and sustainable business.
• Align cooperative efforts with global development agendas including the HLPF and WSSD2.
• Elevate cooperative voices in international policy spaces.

This is a pivotal moment for cooperatives to be recognised as essential contributors to a fairer, more sustainable world.

Watch the Livestream on UN Web TV
(No registration required)