About the year

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 and controlled by their members.

The year represents an exciting opportunity for co-operatives all around the world to celebrate their unique buisness model, a business model which actively contributes to global poverty reduction, employment generation and social integration. Find out how by watching the video below:

The Co-operative Group, as one of the world's largest co-operatively run organisations, is planning some very exciting events and activities to mark the year. From photography exhibits to film screenings, camper van tours and interactive online campaigns there'll be plenty of ways for you to learn more about this growing movement and get involved yourself.

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. Taking place in the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Manchester in the North West of England 'Co-operatives United' is a week-long series of exciting events and activities that will bring over 10,000 like-minded people together in one place to discover how co-operative enterprises build a better world.