Co-operative News

Over 1,100 people from 80 countries attended the ICA Global Conference and Assembly in Panama this week, with 90 speakers delivering keynote sessions, panel discussions and workshops.

Jointly organised in Panama City from 13-17 September by the International Cooperative Alliance and Cooperatives of the Americas, the week culminated in the launch of the Panama Declaration, which proclaims co-operation as a powerful force for peace, justice, inclusion and shared prosperity.

The document focuses on the conference theme – Building Bridges: Cooperative Contributions for a Peaceful World – and highlights the movement’s longstanding commitment to creating economic, social and environmental value: improving the lives of members, strengthening communities, contributing to national and regional development and, collectively, creating global impact. Together, the declaration says, these are the ingredients for peace.