The International Year of Co-operatives is a United Nations led initiative that aims to raise awareness of co-operatives as successful, values-based enterprises that are owned by their members rather than shareholders.
The year represents an opportunity for co-operatives all around the world to celebrate their unique business model and the unique contribution it makes to global poverty reduction, employment creation and social integration.
The Co-operative Group's planned activities for the year extend from street galleries to film screenings, camper van tours and interactive online campaigns; all providing opportunities for everyone to learn about co-operatives and get involved. For up to date information on what is going on in the UK, visit http://www.co-operative.coop/2012
Towards the end of 2012 all eyes will be on the UK as The Co-operative Group plays host to the global closing ceremony for the UN Year in its home city of Manchester. 'Co-operatives United' is a week-long series of events and activities that will bring over 10,000 like-minded people together in one place to share ideas and insight on exactly how co-operative enterprises build a better world.
