Building a better world together: cooperative contributions to SDG 8

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. This report by the International Cooperative Alliance examines how cooperatives contribute to inclusive economic growth, employment, and decent work, with a particular focus on Sustainable Development Goal 8.

Produced as part of the Building a better world together series for the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025, the report brings together global evidence and case studies to demonstrate how cooperative and mutual business models create jobs, support livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience.

It highlights the role of cooperatives in aligning economic activity with democratic participation and social purpose, supporting over 280 million livelihoods globally. Cooperatives create pathways into formal employment, improve working conditions, and expand opportunities for women, youth, and marginalised groups.

Drawing on examples across sectors such as construction, agriculture, transport, and services, the report shows how cooperatives provide fair wages, social protection, skills development, and long-term employment opportunities. It also demonstrates how cooperatives contribute to more inclusive labour markets by supporting informal workers, fostering entrepreneurship, and strengthening local economies.

Report at a glance

• Publisher: International Cooperative Alliance

• Year: 2025

• Focus: Cooperative contributions to economic growth, employment, and decent work

• Geographic scope: International 

• Format: PDF report 

• Audience: Policymakers, researchers, cooperative leaders, development practitioners

Why this report matters

Creating sustainable economic growth and decent work is a central challenge for economies globally. This report provides practical examples of how cooperative and mutual enterprises contribute to employment, income stability, and long-term economic participation.

The report is particularly relevant to governments and industry leaders seeking inclusive growth models that balance productivity with fairness. It demonstrates how cooperatives support job creation, strengthen labour market participation, and provide resilience during economic and social disruption.

For New Zealand audiences, the report offers useful international context for conversations about productivity, workforce development, regional economies, and the future of work. It reinforces the role of cooperative and mutual models in supporting sustainable economic activity that benefits both members and communities.

Key themes explored

• Cooperative contributions to job creation and sustainable economic growth

• The role of cooperatives in providing decent work and fair labour conditions

• Expanding opportunities for women, youth, and marginalised groups

• Supporting transitions from informal to formal employment

• Skills development, education, and long-term workforce participation

• Cooperative resilience in changing labour markets and economic conditions

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