To celebrate the 100th anniversary of its Cooperatives Unit (COOP), the ILO organised a two-day international symposium on the 16th and 17th November 2020. Held virtually, the symposium highlighted the contribution of cooperatives and the wider social and solidarity economy (SSE) in advancing social justice, decent work, and the sustainable development agenda. It brought together policymakers, researchers and practitioners who reflected on historical perspectives, legal and policy frameworks, measurement, management, sustainability, platform economy and future of work issues among others. The event was live-streamed on ILO TV in English, Spanish and French, the recording for the same can be accessed here – Day 1: English and Day 2- English .

The opening remark for the Symposium was shared by ICA President Mr. Ariel Guarco. He said that ICA deeply values celebrating the 100-year milestone of the ILO’s Cooperative Unit

Referring to the first Director of the ILO, Mr. Guarco mentioned, Albert Thomas understood that cooperatives were vital to improving the living conditions of workers. Hundred years later, strengthening the ties between the ICA and the ILO is more important than ever considering the challenges facing the world today.

He also noted that the cooperative identity is enshrined in ILO’s Promotion of Cooperatives Recommendation, 2002 (No. 193). The MoU signed last year during ILO’s Centenary, demonstrates the commitment of the two organizations to walk together toward a future of work that incorporates cooperative values and principles leaving no one behind. Mr. Guarco said that this symposium is a very good opportunity to strengthen the cooperative paradigm globally.

The event was also participated by ICA staff - Hagen Henry, Stefania Marcone, Mr. Hyungsik EUM, Jeffrey Moxom, and John Emerson as speakers and chairs for different sessions.

The session wise details of the two-day symposium can be found here