Programme announced for International Summit of Cooperatives

The International Summit of Cooperatives has announced the topics for the three-day conference, which is due to take place on 11-13 October in Quebec. In an uncertain world beset...

The International Summit of Cooperatives has announced the topics for the three-day conference, which is due to take place on 11-13 October in Quebec.

In an uncertain world beset by crises, the co-operative model is a solution

Themed ‘Cooperatives: the power to act’, the summit will feature over 150 international experts that will look at co-operative solutions for a sustainable future. The event is aimed at executives, decision-makers, managers and leaders from the co-operative movement and other sectors.

International Co-operative Alliance president Monique Leroux said: “The summit will address the essential role of co-operatives and mutuals in implementing sustainable economic development strategies. In an uncertain world beset by crises, the co-operative model is a solution for the future because of its stability and tremendous power to act throughout the world.

“Already, its influence in the local, regional and global economy demonstrates that it is part of the solution to planetary issues. We will look at ways to take it even further.” Ms Leroux is also the outgoing chair, president and chief executive of Desjardins Group, which is co-hosting the summit along with the Alliance.

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The first day of the event will explore social, economic and geopolitical challenges around the world. Speakers will examine the role of co-operatives and mutuals in addressing issues such as growing inequalities, the weakening of real economies, employment crises, the impact of the digital world, renewable energy development and access to healthcare.

Day two will focus on the movement’s capacity to act and expand its economic power. Participants will be grouped into sectors such as agriculture and agri-food industries, insurance, banking and financial services, health and social care, wholesale and retail trade, industry, services, energy and forestry. They will look at ways to adapt to competition within their sectors, seeking to share strategies that can lead to new partnerships.

Co-ops can help shape the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda

The last day of the summit will seek to highlight concrete solutions to the key global issues identified by the United Nations, such as food security, the employment crisis, access to healthcare and social services, poverty and financial inclusion, climate change and sustainable development.

Alongside the main conference, the summit will also host 20 other side events organised by co-operatives, mutuals, co-operative associations, and local organisations. The summit is also accepting submissions for scientific activity project until 31 March.

  • For more information on the summit and details of how to register for the conference, visit www.intlsummit.coop.
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