Global Cooperative Leaders Propose Vision for New Economy at Doha Summit

Cooperative Leaders Propose Vision for New Economy at Doha Summit

On November 4, 2025, during the World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, an influential coalition of cooperative and mutual leaders unveiled a significant manifesto aimed at redefining the global economic landscape. This initiative, spearheaded by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), introduced a Contract for a New Global Economy, marking the first step towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

The Leadership Circle

The newly formed Cooperatives and Mutuals Leadership Circle (CM50) comprises top executives from some of the world's largest cooperative and mutual organizations. Notable members include Jayen Mehta of Amul from India, Shirine Khoury Haq of Co-op Group in the UK, and Howard Brodsky, co-founder of CCA Global Partners in the USA. This diverse group is committed to promoting cooperative principles that foster social development and economic resilience across the globe.

Acknowledging the Cooperative Model

The summit's discussions underscored the potential of cooperatives in addressing critical challenges such as sustainable development, social inclusion, and economic resilience. The Doha Political Declaration emphasizes the pivotal role cooperatives play in the social and solidarity economy, promoting entrepreneurship and decent work, which is essential for combating inequality and strengthening communities.

Ariel Guarco, the President of the ICA, remarked, “Cooperatives have demonstrated their power to build fairer, more resilient economies and societies.” His comments highlight the recognition of cooperatives as vital contributors to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Celebrating Achievements

The Doha event also celebrated the closing of the UN's 2025 International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), spotlighting the achievements of the cooperative sector. A co-hosted Solutions Session by ICA and the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC) saw participation from Heads of State and UN representatives, reinforcing the recognition of cooperatives as essential players in sustainable social development.

During the session, the launch of ICA's 2026-2030 Strategy was announced, plotting a roadmap for future cooperative initiatives that amplify their role in global economics. A special edition of the World Cooperative Monitor was unveiled, showcasing the social and economic impact of the global cooperative movement. The monitor revealed that the top 300 cooperatives worldwide generate a staggering combined turnover of $2.8 trillion, placing the cooperative sector as the eighth-largest economy globally.

A Forward-Looking Vision

The manifesto presented during this summit aims to galvanize support for the cooperative model, not just as a business structure but as a force for good in society. Interviews with leading cooperative figures illustrated how these democratic, people-centered enterprises adapt and flourish in contemporary markets, emphasizing their unique approach to business as a means to enhance public welfare.

The cooperative business model, characterized by collective ownership and democratic governance, holds promise for driving a more inclusive economy that prioritizes the welfare of communities alongside profit. As we advance towards an unpredictable future, the insights and commitments articulated at the Doha Summit illuminate a path forward, turning the vision of a shared global economy into reality.

As we close the chapter on IYC2025 in Doha, the renewed energy from cooperative leaders provides hope and direction for a more equitable and sustainable future. The cooperative movement aims to utilize this momentum to further integrate sustainable practices within local and global economies.

By reinforcing the significance of cooperation in economic activities, this newly formed global alliance seeks to inspire a shift from a solely profit-driven focus to a model that values inclusivity, equity, and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Doha Summit served as a historic platform for cooperative leaders to unite and share a powerful vision for the future of the global economy. With the strong backing from international partners and a clear action plan laid out, the cooperative sector is poised to continue its essential contributions to social development and sustainability in the years to come.