Global Cooperative Conference 2024: Building a Prosperous Future Together

In November 2024, India will proudly host the Global Cooperative Conference, the world’s largest gathering of cooperators. Scheduled to take place from 25-30 November at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, this significant event is organized by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), which serves as the voice for cooperatives worldwide. New Delhi, home to the ICA’s Asia Pacific office, offers an ideal setting for this landmark conference.

The event is being hosted by the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative (IFFCO) alongside 18 ICA member organizations in India. Collectively, these organizations represent nearly 800,000 cooperatives and 290 million cooperators. The conference will feature inspirational speakers, engaging panel debates, and numerous side sessions where delegates will collaboratively develop cooperative visions and strategies.

The theme of this year's conference, "Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All," underscores the role of cooperatives as people-centered, purpose-led, and progress-driven enterprises. The conference will also serve as the official launch of the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025 (IYC2025), with the theme "Cooperatives Build a Better World." This initiative aims to inspire cooperators globally to strengthen the international cooperative movement.

In addition to the conference, the ICA General Assembly will convene, where global ICA members will meet to approve financial statements and strategies as per their articles of association. Founded in 1895, the ICA unites, represents, and serves over 3 million cooperative enterprises and more than 1 billion cooperative members worldwide.

Rochdale Pioneers Award at the Global Cooperative Conference

A highlight of the 2024 Global Cooperative Conference will be the presentation of the International Cooperative Alliance’s Rochdale Pioneers Award. This prestigious award is the highest honor bestowed by the ICA, recognizing individuals and, in exceptional cases, cooperative organizations that have made significant contributions to innovative and financially sustainable cooperative activities benefiting cooperative members.

Nominations for the award are now open, inviting submissions of individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exemplary leadership and innovation in the cooperative sector. This award not only honors past achievements but also inspires future generations to continue the legacy of cooperative excellence.