Global Cooperative Leaders Propose New Economy Framework at Doha Summit

Cooperative Leaders Propose New Economy Framework at Doha Summit

The recent World Summit for Social Development, held in Doha, Qatar, marked a pivotal moment for global cooperatives as leaders from various cooperative and mutual organizations united to unveil a visionary manifesto called the "Contract for a New Global Economy". This initiative, led by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), aims to reshape economic paradigms with a focus on sustainability and social equity.

The summit's event highlighted the role of cooperatives as essential catalysts for social and economic development. As acknowledged in the Doha Political Declaration, cooperatives can effectively foster entrepreneurship, create decent employment opportunities, and promote social inclusion. During the summit, a notable Solutions Session was organized by the ICA, co-hosted with the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC), gathering heads of state, UN representatives, and cooperative leaders from around the world. This session also coincided with the conclusion of the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025).

Ariel Guarco, President of the ICA, articulated the cooperative movement's significant contribution to building more resilient economies and societies. He emphasized that the recognition from the Doha Political Declaration and the upcoming 2025 UN Secretary-General's report on cooperatives in social development affirms the unique role of cooperatives in realizing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

The cooperative leaders at the summit included prominent figures such as Jayen Mehta (MD of Amul, India), Shirine Khoury Haq (CEO of Co-op Group, UK), Howard Brodsky (Co-founder and Chairman of CCA Global Partners, USA), Fabíola da Silva Nader Motta (General Manager of OCB, Brazil), and Rob Wesseling (President and CEO of The Cooperators, Canada). Their collective commitment signifies a robust collaboration towards a future where cooperative values are pivotal in maintaining a fairer economic landscape.

One of the highlights of this summit was the unveiling of a special edition of the "World Cooperative Monitor." This document illustrates the significant social and economic impact of the cooperative movement, revealing that the top 300 cooperatives globally boast a combined turnover of an astounding $2.8 trillion—positioning them as the eighth-largest economy in the world. Moreover, it features interviews with cooperative leaders who share insights on how these democratic, people-centered enterprises manage to thrive in today’s competitive market environments.

The excitement generated by the launch of the new manifesto and the closing ceremonies of IYC2025 signifies a renewed energy to expand the reach and influence of cooperatives globally. There is a shared understanding that cooperative enterprises possess the necessary framework to meet contemporary challenges and drive the global agenda for sustainable development forward. As the ICA gears up for its new strategic plan for 2026-2030, the collective momentum from the Doha Summit is expected to enhance a cooperative footprint worldwide.

In conclusion, the Doha Summit has successfully illuminated the potential of cooperatives in creating a sustainable economic future that prioritizes social justice and environmental stewardship. As we look ahead, the principles that guide cooperative movements can serve as beacons for establishing inclusive economies that address the needs of all citizens, particularly in these times of global volatility and uncertainty. The ongoing dialogue initiated at this summit will be crucial for fostering international cooperation and innovation in the years to come.