The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) has announced the theme for the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives (CoopsDay), celebrated every year on the first Saturday of July, as declared by the United Nations. The theme is: “Cooperatives promote inclusive and sustainable solutions for a better world.” This year, CoopsDay will hold special significance as it takes place within the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), also declared by the UN.
The 2025 theme is especially relevant in light of today’s challenges: diplomatic and climate crises, persistent inequality, and social protection systems under threat. In this context, cooperatives act as key players by offering innovative, people-centered solutions.
This year’s focus aligns with major international processes, such as the Second World Summit for Social Development, which will address issues like social inclusion and poverty eradication; and the UN High-Level Political Forum, which will assess progress on several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including decent work, gender equality, and partnership building.
Present in all sectors—from agriculture to health, energy, education, and finance—cooperatives have proven their ability to drive equitable economic development, encourage democratic participation, and promote sustainability.
Cooperatives are more vital than ever in times of uncertainty
“This theme reflects both the identity and the urgency of the cooperative model,” said Wenyan Yang, Chair of the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC). “In times of global uncertainty, cooperatives show that development can be democratic, inclusive, and rooted in solidarity.”
Jeroen Douglas, ICA Director General, added: “It’s time to recognize the collective strength of the cooperative model and renew our commitment to a fairer and more sustainable future for all.”
A celebration with history
The International Day of Cooperatives has been celebrated since 1923 and was officially recognized by the UN in 1995.
In 2025, two events will be commemorated: the 103rd International Day of Cooperatives and the 31st UN-recognized edition. The theme was selected by the ICA and COPAC, in coordination with UN agencies such as FAO, ILO, ITC, UNDESA, and UNRISD.
Global participation
CoopsDay 2025 invites cooperatives worldwide to join the celebration, strengthen partnerships, and showcase their impact. To support this mobilization, a renewed logo has been launched, aligned with the visual identity of the International Year.
Organizations and the general public are encouraged to explore resources at www.coopsday.coop and share their stories on the global platform: stories.coop
