What is the International Day of Cooperatives?

The International Day of Cooperatives (CoopsDay) is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of July to raise awareness of cooperatives and promote the movement’s successes in advancing social and economic development. It highlights how cooperatives contribute to solving global challenges while building a better, more inclusive world.

First commemorated in 1923 by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), and officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 1995, CoopsDay showcases how cooperative enterprises empower people, strengthen communities, and uphold the values of democracy, solidarity, and sustainability.

Since 1995, the ICA and the United Nations—through the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC) —have jointly selected the annual theme for CoopsDay. The event is celebrated by cooperatives, civil society organizations, governments, and citizens around the world.

Join the Celebration

Communities around the world are encouraged to take part in #CoopsDay by organizing events, sharing stories, and promoting this year’s theme.