How co-ops can promote peaceful, just and inclusive societies

This webinar is part of a series of global co-op identity consultations led by the ICA's Cooperative Identity Advisory Group

NCBA CLUSA and the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) are joining forces once again to host another conversation on cooperative identity—this time on Principle 6 and UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, "Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions." You can watch our first collaboration on equity and inclusion here.

Despite new and ongoing conflict and instability around the world, the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development continues to urge efforts at the local, national and international levels to secure a just, peaceful and inclusive future. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) envision a world free from poverty, hunger, discrimination, and exploitation of people and planet. SDG 16 speaks directly to the role of Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions in securing sustainable development. Meanwhile, the 6th Cooperative Principle calls on co-ops to serve their members more effectively and strengthen the broader cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures. How do the two connect?

Our December 5 webinar will consider the role of cooperation among cooperatives (including commercial relations) in promoting international understanding and reducing conflict, contributing to positive peace and strengthening civil society.

Register now and join us for a robust discussion of the following questions and more:

• Can trade between cooperatives contribute to building peaceful relations on the ground in conflict zones?
• Why don’t we find steady domestic and international trade among cooperatives, despite 125 years of talk?
• Should the role of existing cooperatives in supporting the emergence and strengthening of new cooperatives—especially beyond local and national borders—be formally included in the language of principle 6?
• What is the secret to creating and sustaining effective associations of cooperatives?

This webinar will be presented in English with simultaneous interpretation in Spanish.