The United Nations has adopted a resolution to commemorate the International Year of Co-operatives every decade, following the success of the 2012 and 2025 observances.
The United Nations (UN) has adopted a landmark resolution to commemorate an International Year of Co-operatives every 10 years, following the global impact of previous observances in 2012 and 2025.
Adopted by the UN General Assembly on 15 December 2025, Resolution A/RES/80/182 recognises the sustained contribution of co-operatives to social and economic development and calls for a decennial proclamation to encourage greater use of the cooperative enterprise model worldwide.
The resolution builds on the momentum generated by the first two International Years of Co-operatives. While the UN rarely repeats designated international year themes, the success of the 2012 and 2025 observances prompted member states to endorse a regular, long-term cycle of recognition.
According to the resolution, co-operatives promote the fullest possible participation in economic and social development, contributing directly to poverty and hunger eradication, gender equality, social inclusion and climate change adaptation and mitigation. It also highlights the role of co-operatives in advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly for Indigenous peoples, rural communities and vulnerable populations.
The resolution calls on governments to strengthen support for co-operatives through improved legal and regulatory frameworks, enhanced access to capital, fair taxation, expanded digital access, and stronger research and data collection. It also encourages greater support for agricultural and financial co-operatives, as well as the promotion of gender equality in participation and leadership.
The decision further reaffirms the annual observance of the International Day of Co-operatives, held on the first Saturday of July. In 2026, CoopsDay will be celebrated on 4 July, with the theme to be announced.
The UN has adopted resolutions on co-operatives in social development since the 1950s, underscoring the model’s long-standing relevance in addressing global economic and social challenges.
By Sng Ler Jun
