International Day of Cooperatives

International Day of Cooperatives History

The International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated globally on the first Saturday of July every year. The day is observed to recognize the significant role of cooperatives in creating inclusive economies and sustainable societies. Cooperatives are organizations owned and run by their members, who benefit from the goods and services offered by the cooperative. The United Nations officially recognized the International Day of Cooperatives in 1995, and since then, the day has been celebrated globally. The theme for the day changes every year, and in 2021, the theme of the International Day of Cooperatives is Rebuild Better Together.

In the United Kingdom, the International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated by various cooperatives and organizations to raise awareness about the cooperative model and its contribution to the economy. The day also provides an opportunity to showcase the successes and achievements of cooperatives across the country.

Cooperatives in the UK were first formed in the 19th century and have played an essential role in various sectors such as agriculture, retail, and finance. The UK has a cooperative tradition that dates back to the early 1800s, with the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers being one of the first cooperatives established in the country. The International Day of Cooperatives is observed annually on July 1st.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 International Day of Cooperatives in the UK

• The theme for the 2026 International Day of Cooperatives is “Cooperatives for a Peaceful World,” which highlights the role of cooperative enterprises in fostering social justice, inclusion, and solidarity.
• This year’s theme aligns with the Building Bridges: Cooperative Contributions for a Peaceful World global conference, emphasizing the movement's capacity to act as bridge-builders in an increasingly fragmented global society.
• The observance underscores the contribution of cooperatives to Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
• Cooperative members and organizations utilize the day to demonstrate how democratic ownership and collective responsibility create resilient local economies that reduce the inequalities often leading to conflict.
• The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) has observed this day since 1923, making it a long-standing tradition for the global cooperative movement.
• The United Nations officially recognized the day in 1995, marking the centenary of the International Cooperative Alliance, to raise awareness of the movement's socio-economic impact.
• The United Kingdom holds significant historical importance for the movement, as the first modern cooperative business was established by 28 artisans in the north of England in 1844.
• Scotland is home to the earliest recorded cooperative, established on March 14, 1761, cementing the UK's status as a foundational location for global cooperative history.
• Cooperatives operate across a diverse range of sectors in the UK and globally, including retail, housing, agriculture, and finance, all governed by the principle of one-member, one-vote.
• The day serves as a platform to promote the cooperative identity, defined by values of self-help, solidarity, and concern for the community, which distinguish it from profit-centered business models.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Cooperatives

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Explore upcoming events near you. The International Cooperative Alliance hosts events that focus on community and societal growth.
• Watch the UN's 2020 International Day of Cooperatives video if you missed it. The video focuses on cooperative solutions that can help lower the risks of climate change.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about cooperatives in the UK. Here are our recommendations:
  1. The Rochdale Pioneers (2012) - This film tells the story of the 28 Rochdale Pioneers who established the first successful cooperative retail store in Rochdale, England, in 1844. It documents the birth of the modern cooperative movement.
  2. Everything for Everyone: The Radical Tradition that Is Shaping the Next Economy (2018) - This documentary investigates the history, principles, and potential of the cooperative movement in the UK and around the world.
  3. The Monday Morning Meeting: A Film About The John Lewis Partnership (2019) - This documentary looks at the employee-owned company, John Lewis Partnership, one of the most successful cooperatives in the UK, exploring how its unique organizational structure has led to its success.
• Consider joining a cooperative that aligns with your interests and values, such as a housing, energy, or grocery store cooperative.