Every year on the first Saturday of July, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives. This special day recognizes the significant role that cooperatives play in promoting economic and social development, as well as contributing to the eradication of poverty and the achievement of sustainable development goals.

Cooperatives are unique business enterprises that are owned and controlled by their members, who can be employees, consumers, producers, or any other group of individuals with a common interest. These organizations operate based on the principles of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, and solidarity. They aim to serve their members' needs and aspirations, rather than maximizing profits for external shareholders.

The International Day of Cooperatives was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992, highlighting the importance of cooperative enterprises in economic development and poverty reduction. Each year, the day is celebrated with a specific theme that reflects the current challenges and opportunities facing cooperatives worldwide.

The theme for this year's International Day of Cooperatives is "Rebuild Better Together." It emphasizes the role of cooperatives in contributing to post-pandemic recovery efforts and building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the strength and resilience of cooperatives in times of crisis, as they have shown their ability to adapt, innovate, and support their members and communities during challenging times.

Cooperatives have a wide range of benefits and impacts on society. They provide opportunities for decent work, income generation, and wealth creation, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable groups. Cooperatives empower women and youth, promote gender equality, and foster social inclusion. They also contribute to community development by investing in local infrastructure, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

One key characteristic of cooperatives is their emphasis on cooperative education and training. They provide members with opportunities to learn about democratic governance, business management, financial literacy, and cooperative values and principles. This knowledge empowers individuals and strengthens their capacity to actively participate in decision-making processes within their cooperatives.

The International Day of Cooperatives serves as a platform to raise awareness about the cooperative movement and its contributions to sustainable development. It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to recognize and support the growth and development of cooperatives. Governments are urged to create an enabling legal and policy environment that facilitates the establishment and growth of cooperatives. Businesses are encouraged to adopt cooperative principles and engage in partnerships with cooperatives to promote inclusive economic growth.

On this day, various events and activities take place globally to celebrate and promote cooperatives. These include seminars, conferences, exhibitions, cultural performances, and community outreach programs. Cooperatives organize events to showcase their achievements, share best practices, and inspire others to join the cooperative movement. They engage in advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of cooperatives in achieving sustainable development goals.

The International Day of Cooperatives reminds us of the power of cooperation and collective action in addressing global challenges. By fostering a sense of solidarity, equality, and shared responsibility, cooperatives contribute to building a fairer and more sustainable world. They embody the spirit of collaboration and demonstrate that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all.

As we celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives this year, let us recognize the invaluable contributions of cooperatives and reaffirm our commitment to supporting their growth and development. By doing so, we can harness the potential of cooperatives to drive inclusive and sustainable development, leaving no one behind.

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