In 2020, we celebrate an incredible journey of 60 years of ICA in the Asia-Pacific region. Our growth has been hand-in-hand with our members in the region. However, at this time, we need to direct our attention to a much larger threat to humanity. The world is going through a pandemic which has affected almost all countries; disrupted work and livelihoods; uprooted lives, irrespective of rich or poor (though the impact on the poor is more severe); and created social and economic upheavals whose effects will be felt for a long time to come.  

Cooperatives have risen in times of crises to respond to emerging needs and shown their resilience to survive by focusing on members and staying true to values and principles. In this issue, we will focus on work being carried out by cooperatives to address the impact of coronavirus in their communities.  

These are unprecedented times, ICA-AP stands in solidarity with its members and the cooperative movement. We remain available to discuss concerns arising due to COVID-19 and encourage all our members to share their experiences and actions during these times. We hope our members, their communities and loved ones remain safe and well. Together we stand, and together we shall overcome!