BRUSSELS, July 1, 2025 — Dear Members, Partners, and Colleagues, it is with deep appreciation and optimism that I present this message on behalf of the Board of the International Cooperative Alliance [ ICA ], reflecting on our shared journey throughout 2024. First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our members, partners, and colleagues around the world. Your unwavering trust, engagement, and commitment have once again demonstrated the strength and resilience of our global cooperative community.
From the Board’s vantage point, 2024 was a year of meaningful progress and reaffirmation of our core mission: to unite, promote, and develop cooperatives worldwide. This year, we deepened our focus on cooperative identity, inclusion, and sustainable development, while navigating a complex and evolving global landscape. Among the year’s highlights were our successful participation in international policy dialogues, the continued strengthening of regional networks, and the celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives, which resonated with communities on every continent.
We recognise with sincere appreciation the leadership of our Director General, along with the dedication and professionalism of the ICA staff. Their tireless efforts ensured that our strategic goals moved forward, despite the many demands of our time.
As the governing body, the Board has remained steadfast in its role of providing strategic direction, ensuring institutional accountability, and upholding our cooperative values. In 2024, we conducted comprehensive strategic planning sessions, updated key policy frameworks, and enhanced our risk management practices. Financial oversight and transparency continued to guide our decisions, ensuring the ICA remains fiscally sound and mission-driven.
We also managed important governance transitions this year. On behalf of the Board, I wish to extend our gratitude to the directors who completed their service in 2024. Your contributions have left a lasting impact. At the same time, we warmly welcome our new board members, who bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to our work.
No year is without its trials. Economic uncertainty, geopolitical instability, and climate-related events presented significant challenges for cooperatives globally. Internally, we also faced the need to adapt and evolve our operations. However, through collective wisdom and collaboration, we found innovative ways to overcome obstacles. These experiences have reinforced the importance of solidarity, flexibility, and long-term thinking—hallmarks of the cooperative model.
Looking ahead, we remain focused on our long-term strategic vision: a stronger, more visible, and more influential cooperative movement. The Board is fully committed to supporting initiatives that promote cooperative entrepreneurship, gender equity, youth inclusion, and climate action. We believe firmly in the ability of cooperatives to offer people centered, sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
To our Director General, executive team, staff, and interns—thank you for your passion and professionalism. To my fellow Board members, thank you for your leadership and solidarity. To our partners and supporters— your collaboration makes our impact possible.
As we conclude another year, I am inspired by the resilience and purpose that define our movement. Together, we continue to prove that cooperation is not only a business model—it is a path toward a more just and sustainable world.
In cooperation,
Ariel Guarco, President International Cooperative Alliance
https://thecooperator.news/ariel-guarco-appointed-ica-director-general-ad-interim/
Buy your copy of thecooperator magazine from one of our country-wide vending points or an e-copy on emag.thecooperator.news
-
-
-
-
