The European Young Cooperators Network (YECN) held its General Assembly in Porto from 5 to 7 November, an event marking a historic milestone, as the network formalised its structure ten years after its creation and three years after its relaunch in Cardiff (Wales).
The event was hosted by CASES – António Sérgio Cooperative for the Social Economy – co-organised with Cooperatives Europe and supported by the Porto City Council, with collaboration from local cooperatives such as Povo Portuense and Alternâcina, among others.
Around 30 young people from 14 European countries, representing 17 nationalities, gathered around the drive of a new generation of cooperators committed to building a fairer and more sustainable future. They addressed challenges such as generational renewal and the inclusion of young people in the cooperative movement and international cooperative bodies.
The assembly included contributions from Eduardo Graça, president of CASES, and Mariam Gabrielyan, from the Cooperatives Europe board. It also featured a video message from Giuseppe Guerini, president of Cooperatives Europe, as well as remarks from Anna Loscalzo, YECN president.
“This event is an opportunity to use the YECN as a bridge connecting existing experiences, but also to contribute new ideas and an innovative spirit. We come from different backgrounds and cultures, but I believe that, by virtue of being here, we share a common set of values: cooperation and faith in the cooperative model,” said Mariam Gabrielyan.
Participants unanimously approved the YECN Terms of Reference, marking a key step in consolidating the network. This decision paves the way for the election of the first Steering Committee and the development of joint projects. The Assembly strengthened ties, fostered new collaborations and provided an open, safe space for dialogue and the exchange of visions for the coming years.
Belief in the cooperative model
“This is undoubtedly a historic moment for the YECN. Over the past years, we have worked side by side to bring this network to life, and seeing it formalised today is both exciting and inspiring. It shows what young cooperators can achieve when they collaborate with trust, creativity, and a shared conviction in the cooperative model,” said Anna Loscalzo, president of the European Young Cooperators Network (YECN).
Next year, the network will work on developing activities, delegating roles and responsibilities, and consolidating its membership.
