Priority 2

Leadership and commitment

2.1 International lobbying

Under the leadership of Dame Pauline, the Alliance and the cooperative movement were more visible than ever, the world over. The Alliance must continue its efforts with the international bodies to increase recognition and spread the cooperative model. It must aim to become a key player in developing economic and social public policy. It must be part of key decision tables (e.g. UN, WB, IMF, B7/G7, B20/G20, etc.). The Alliance must also assist jurisdictions lagging behind by providing support toward efforts to represent its members. Lastly, it must step up its presence in the media and large international meetings such as the World Economic Forum and the International Summit of Cooperatives.

2.2 Social responsibility and sustainable development

Social responsibility is imprinted in the DNA of cooperatives because their ultimate goal is to improve the social and economic well-being of individuals and communities. Cooperatives must be part of the solution to the major economic, social and environmental issues of our time (e.g., health, food and education, and climate change). In particular, the Alliance must encourage large cooperative groups, particularly financial ones, to influence investment and financing strategies and thus promote sustainable development, notably by fighting climate change.

2.3 Education and succession

The cooperative business model is not taught widely enough, particularly in higher education institutions, is not the subject of systemic research and is not really promoted as an entrepreneurial venture. The Alliance must play a role in identifying research themes and support its members’ efforts to exert influence, notably through promotion and information tools. As for succession, the Alliance must contribute to the development of future cooperative leaders, including empowering women and supporting diversity, for example, by facilitating international internships and mentoring opportunities.