The United Nations Headquarters hosted a dynamic session titled “SDGs Implementation: Are Cooperatives Fit for Purpose?”, bringing global attention to the pivotal role of cooperatives in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event took place during the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) and coincides with two significant global milestones: the second United Nations International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025) and the upcoming World Social Summit (WSS) in November.
Jointly organized by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) and the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC), the 75-minute session gathered representatives from governments, cooperative leaders, and civil society to evaluate how cooperatives are contributing to sustainable, inclusive development. With simultaneous interpretation in English and Spanish and hybrid participation, the event reflected both the global reach and diversity of the cooperative movement.
The session focused on five SDGs under review in 2025, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
A highlight of the session was the keynote address by Ms. Ulziibayar Vangansuren, Deputy Permanent Representative of Mongolia, who emphasized the importance of formally recognizing cooperatives as essential contributors to national Voluntary National Review (VNR) reports. Mongolia, alongside countries like Japan, has proactively included cooperatives in its SDG reporting, offering a model for others.
The event featured a robust policy dialogue segment where UN member states shared best practices on integrating cooperatives into national planning and reporting mechanisms. This was followed by a panel discussion, “SDG Solutions in Action”, showcasing case studies that illustrate how cooperatives are directly advancing the SDGs under review.
Whether through cooperative healthcare services, women’s leadership in rural credit societies, sustainable fishing cooperatives, or global knowledge partnerships, the session underscored how cooperative values, democratic ownership, equity, and mutual support, are well aligned with the 2030 Agenda.
COPAC and ICA also presented their ongoing series of IYC2025 SDG Briefs, which document global examples of cooperatives delivering impact across sectors. These briefs serve as important tools for policymakers and development practitioners alike.
The closing discussion stressed the need to systematize the inclusion of cooperatives in national SDG strategies, enhance their participation in VNR consultations, and ensure they are central to the narrative at the WSS in November.
As the world enters the final stretch toward the 2030 deadline, the message was clear: cooperatives are not only fit for purpose, they are indispensable partners in building a just, inclusive, and sustainable world.