Welcome to the official website on the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC). Here you will find information on events planned throughout the year, as well as suggestions on how to get involved and participate.

The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives, highlighting the contribution of cooperatives to socio-economic development, in particular recognizing their impact on poverty reduction, employment generation and social integration.

The United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/64/136 encourages all member States, the United Nations and all relevant stakeholders to take advantage of the IYC to promote cooperatives and raise awareness of their contribution to social and economic development and promote the formation and growth of cooperatives. The resolution A/RES/64/136 - Proclamation of 2012 as International Year of Cooperatives is available in all UN six official languages:  English | Français | Español | Русский | عربي | 汉语

The United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/65/184 Invites all Member States to consider taking action towards establishing national mechanisms, such as national committees, to prepare for, observe and
follow up on the International Year of Cooperatives, in particular for the purpose of planning, stimulating and harmonizing the activities of the governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations concerned with the preparations for and observance of the Year.
 English | Français | Español | Русский | عربي | 汉语

Goals of the International Year of Cooperatives             

1. 1Increase public awareness about cooperatives and their contributions to socio-economic development and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.
   

2. 2Promote the formation and growth of cooperatives
   

3. 3Encourage Governments to establish policies, laws and regulations conducive to the formation, growth and stability of cooperatives.
   

Fuente: Agencia Europa Press