Summit Info

Overview and Objectives of the 2012 International Summit of Cooperatives

With 800 million members in over 100 countries, the cooperative and mutualist movement is a major economic player at the local, regional, national, and international levels. Together, the 300 largest cooperatives and mutuals in the world represent an economic power equal to the 10th largest economy in the world.

Half of the world's population depends on the cooperative and mutualist model for their livelihood, and this business model is expected to experience more growth than any other between now and 2020. That's why it's important for the decision-makers and persons of influence from the world of cooperatives and mutuals to discuss their current and future business challenges and identify initiatives that will help promote the sustainable prosperity.

In this respect, the 2012 International Summit of Cooperatives, which will focus on economic and financial issues specific to cooperatives and mutuals, is the ideal place to forge high-calibre strategic alliances.

The Summit will also give participants a chance to look at major international development trends and adopt a common vision of the global cooperative movement and the opportunities it offers.

From this perspective, the Summit will serve to strengthen the network of cooperatives and mutuals around the world to create a real sphere of influence in all economic and political arenas.

Eco-friendly Event

To reflect the sustainable development values intrinsic to the cooperative movement, the Summit will be green, meaning that overall, all Summit activities–including those involving the transportation of participants–will be carbon neutral.