This week Rochdale and Manchester play a leading role in the global celebration of co-operation as part of the United Nations’ International Year of Co-operatives 2025.
Over 500 delegates from across the world – from Argentina to Armenia and South Africa to Sri Lanka are arriving to take part in the festivities.
The UN has designated 2025 as a year to recognise the power of co-operative action. For the global movement, it is a return to its birthplace: Rochdale, where the modern co-operative was founded in 1844 by the Rochdale Pioneers. This historic connection is being marked with a packed programme of events supported by Co-op Group and Co-operatives UK, including Co-op Congress (Opens in new window) at Rochdale Town Hall and public activities at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum.
Rose Marley, CEO of Manchester-based Co-operatives UK, said:
“It’s incredibly powerful to see the world return to where it all began – right here in the North West. Co-operatives were born out of industrial hardship in Rochdale and the values that shaped them – fairness, self-reliance, and community – are still urgently needed today. This region isn’t just our historic heart, it’s a living centre of co-operative activity, innovation and leadership. From Rochdale to the world, co-operation continues to offer practical answers to the challenges we face.”
The International Day of Co-operatives, held on Saturday 5 July will highlight how co-operatives build stronger communities and more inclusive economies. For Co-op Group, it also marks the significance of the Fund for International Co-operative Development, launched at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum last year, to honour 180 years of co-operation.
The fund will provide financial support and expertise to co-operatives globally – helping communities rebuild after crises, fostering peace, and creating sustainable economies. Its focus ranges from immediate humanitarian assistance to post-crisis rebuilding and long-term mutual aid.
The co-operative movement is a key driver of the global economy. With over one billion members and more than 3 million co-operatives worldwide, the movement is one of the UK’s most significant exports, fostering international trade and building a fairer global economy.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Chief Executive of Co-op Group – which hosted the International Co-operative Alliance’s General Assembly on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, said:
“The values of co-operation were born in the North West and they remain just as relevant today. This is a moment to reflect on where we came from and to show how we are still working with communities, both here and around the world, to build a fairer future. What’s more, this year demonstrates how co-operatives are leading the way in creating global economic connections that benefit everyone.
“180 years after we were founded in Rochdale, our co-operative values still guide how our Co-op does business. Our model – the strength of which lies in being run by members for members – balances purpose with profit, enabling positive impacts in a changing world. Co-operatives have a vital role to play in demonstrating a fairer, more values-led way of doing business – and in delivering better outcomes for members and society. The UN has recognised the impact of co-operatives around the world in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. That’s why 2025 has been designated the International Year of Co-operatives.”
