Sector body Cooperatives Europe marks its 20th anniversary on 15 and 16 October with a two-day event at the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels.
The event will bring together co-operative members, EU institutions, academia, and partners for discussion of the past 20 years, and a look ahead at the role co-ops can play in shaping Europe’s future.
“For twenty years,” says the apex, “Cooperatives Europe has worked alongside its members to build a fairer and more democratic economy. Together, we have united different co-operative perspectives, national federations, sectors, and leaders to advocate for the interests of co-operatives across Europe.
“This collective effort has brought together diverse groups of people and communities who keep cooperative principles at the heart of their daily work. Let’s unite and celebrate!”
The event is in-person only, with French-English interpretation available. The main conference is open to everyone, including co-op leaders, national organisations, policymakers, academics and anyone interested in co-ops.
Related: Young European co-operators gather to discuss economic democracy
Cooperatives Europe says it builds on the momentum of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, adding: “As Europe faces major economic, social, digital and environmental change, co-operatives continue to show the value of an economic model based on democratic ownership, long-term commitment and shared value.
“They strengthen local communities, respond to people’s needs rather than external shareholders, and give members real influence over the decisions that affect them.”
On the first day, the conference will reflect on the movement’s shared history, celebrate collective achievements, recognise the people who made them possible, and highlight inspiring co-operative initiatives from across Europe.
The second day will offer discussions with co-operative leaders, policymakers, academics and other stakeholders, exploring how co-ops “can help shape the next chapter of Europe’s economy through economic democracy”.
It is hoped the event “will provide space for dialogue between the cooperative movement and decision-makers on how the co-operative model can be better recognised and supported to build the Europe of the future”.
