In a landmark event held at the Doha Summit, cooperative leaders from around the globe came together to unveil a visionary “Contract for a New Global Economy,” signaling a new era for cooperative enterprises. This initiative, launched by the Cooperatives and Mutuals Leadership Circle (CM50) under the aegis of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), aims to reshape economic frameworks that prioritize sustainability, social inclusion, and resilience.
### The Emergence of the CM50
The CM50 initiative marks a significant collaboration among leaders from diverse cooperative and mutual enterprises, including notable figures such as Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of Amul (India), Shirine Khoury Haq, CEO of the Co-op Group (UK), Howard Brodsky, Co-founder and Chairman of CCA Global Partners (USA), Fabíola da Silva Nader Motta, General Manager of OCB (Brazil), and Rob Wesseling, President and CEO of The Cooperators (Canada). These leaders converge around a common purpose: to harness the collective potential of cooperatives to address pressing global challenges.
### Context and Significance of the Doha Summit
The Doha Summit served as a platform to recognize the cooperative business model’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable development. The Doha Political Declaration spotlighted cooperatives as vital players in promoting the social and solidarity economy. With their ability to foster entrepreneurship, create decent jobs, and drive social inclusion, cooperatives are increasingly seen as instrumental to building resilient economies.
### A Focus on ESG and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Central to the discussions at the summit was the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into cooperative practices. The ICA emphasized that cooperatives not only contribute to the economy but also share a responsibility to address societal and environmental challenges. Ariel Guarco, President of the ICA, remarked on the cooperative movement’s profound impact on creating fairer and more resilient societies. He highlighted that the conclusions of the 2025 UN Secretary-General’s report affirm this unique contribution.
The launch of the ICA’s 2026-2030 Strategy reinforces this commitment. By outlining specific objectives that align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the cooperative movement is positioning itself as a crucial driver of global change. The cooperative business model, rooted in democratic principles, offers a framework for economic activities that prioritize social and environmental well-being.
### The Role of Cooperatives in the Global Economy
The special edition of the World Cooperative Monitor released during the summit provided compelling evidence of the cooperative movement’s significant social and economic impact. It revealed that the world’s top 300 cooperatives generate a combined turnover of approximately USD 2.8 trillion, showcasing their capacity as one of the world’s largest economies. This figure not only illustrates the economic prowess of cooperatives but also their potential to influence global markets fundamentally.
Interviews included in the report further elucidated how cooperative leaders are successfully navigating modern market challenges. The cooperative model’s emphasis on democratic governance and people-centered business practices allows these enterprises to thrive, creating value for their members while contributing to the broader community.
### Celebrating Achievements and Recognizing Challenges
The event also marked the closing ceremony of the United Nations 2025 International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025). This year-long observance was dedicated to highlighting the contributions of cooperatives to the global economy and their role in advancing the SDGs. The ICA utilized this platform to reflect on the achievements of the cooperative movement while acknowledging the challenges ahead.
With issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice looming large, the cooperative sector is tasked with expanding its influence and adopting innovative solutions. The recognition at the Doha Summit underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among cooperatives, governments, and international organizations in nurturing a sustainable future.
### Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the cooperative movement embarks on this new journey, the call to action is clear: cooperative leaders must continue to innovate and advocate for policies that support the growth of cooperative enterprises. By doing so, they can reinforce their position as champions of sustainable development and social equality.
The unveiling of the “Contract for a New Global Economy” at the Doha Summit is not merely a declaration; it is a commitment to building a future where cooperative principles drive economic practices. As cooperative leaders take these bold steps, their collective impact may very well shape the contours of the global economy in the years to come.
By fostering collaboration, engaging with local communities, and emphasizing sustainability through ESG practices, cooperatives can lead the charge towards a more equitable and just world. The momentum gained at the Doha Summit provides a powerful foundation for this transformative journey, inviting all stakeholders to join in reimagining a global economy that serves all of humanity.
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