5TH JULY IS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF COOPERATIVES
There is a joy of working in a team and winning together as a team. Many times we are unable to achieve certain goals when we work individually but team spirit yields results in a positive way. Working together or working in a team is always positive and we should know that more than 12% of humanity is part of any of the 3 million cooperatives on earth.
There is no doubt that cooperatives contribute to the sustainable economic growth and stable, quality employment, providing jobs or work opportunities to 280 million people across the globe — 10% of the world’s employed. According to the World Cooperative Monitor the 300 largest cooperatives or mutuals report a total turnover of 2,409.41 billion USD while providing the services and infrastructure society needs to thrive around the world.
It is interesting to know the core or basic principles of the cooperatives which includes voluntary and open membership, democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence; education, training, and information; cooperation among cooperatives and concern for community.
These are the basic core principles but it depends how we practice them in reality when we become part of any cooperative.
Cooperatives have been acknowledged as associations and enterprises through which citizens can effectively improve their lives while contributing to the economic, social, cultural and political advancement of their community and nation.
The cooperative movement has been also recognized as a distinct and major stakeholder in both national and international affairs.
The cooperative movement in India has deep roots, drawing inspiration from the ancient Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which translates to “the world is one family.”
This enduring principle of unity and mutual support has fostered the growth of cooperatives as vital institutions that empower local communities and drive grassroots development.
According to the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), cooperatives are member-owned enterprises that prioritize shared economic, social, and cultural objectives, placing people above profit. In India, cooperatives have transformed countless lives by enabling marginalized communities to access resources, secure livelihoods, and participate in the economy.
We should know that the earliest record of a co-operative comes from Scotland on March 14, 1761. In 1844 a group of 28 artisans working in the cotton mills in north of England established the first modern co-operative business.
The establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation on July 6, 2021, underscored India’s commitment to enhancing the cooperative sector.
On Saturday, 5 July 2025, communities around the world are coming together to celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives (CoopsDay) under the inspiring theme: “Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World.”
This year’s event is especially significant, taking place during the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025)—a rare, once-in-a-decade moment to spotlight the vital role of cooperatives in creating fairer, more resilient societies. The day is marked on the first Saturday of July every year.
In a time of growing global challenges, this year’s theme speaks volumes. Cooperatives—businesses owned and run by and for their members—are showing how it’s possible to build strong communities by putting people, planet, and purpose before profit.
From health and housing to agriculture, finance, and clean energy, co-ops are delivering real-world solutions that are inclusive, democratic, and sustainable. There is no doubt that cooperatives also foster external equality and enhance sustainable changes as they are community-based, they are committed to the sustainable development of their communities – environmentally, socially and economically.
The participation of us is vital and how we drive them as actions are important. Abiding by the core principles and working in the true spirit cooperatives are a must for a better tomorrow and let us get engaged in a positive way and contribute positively for a sustainable future.
(With direct inputs from UN publication and feedback may be sent to bkranjan@gmail.com)
Ranjan K Baruah
Guwahati, Assam