Argentinian co-operative federations partner up to strengthen the movement

The Argentinian co-operative movement is breaking new boundaries as the country’s two main co-operative organisations signed a new collaborative agreement on 5 July. President of Cooperar, Ariel Guarco, formed an agreement with Christian Miño, President of the Argentinian National Confederation of Worker Co-operatives (CNCT) that will enable the two organsiations to extend their collaboration across various sectors such as communication, housing, health, gender and youth.

The new agreement is expected to play an important role in furthering co-operative development. “It’s an historical moment for the Argentinian co-operative movement, as proved by this agreement between the two confederations, that aims to officially formalise the work realised, continuing the integration process and giving to our society the answers it needs,” said Ariel Guarco.

With this signed agreement, the two organisations will join their efforts in order to strengthen co-operatives and consolidate the existing networks, particularly in sectors such as textile, technology, metallurgy and graphic.

The joint venture will also enable the two organisations to adopt a common stance and have a greater impact in terms of legislative proposals, youth involvement and gender equality.

Speaking at the event, Christian Miño, President of CNCT said the agreement was designed to improve the quality of life of all co-operative members and also of every single Argentinian. A technical committee will also be established in order to implement the collective agreement.

“For us it is an honour because Cooperar has a 50 years history, a lot of experience and historical social economy members. This agreement will give us a great impetus and will benefit the CNCT a lot,” said Mr Miño.

The signing of the agreement was followed by a reception attended by various representatives of the Argentinian mutual and co-operative sector, including Silvio Bageneta, Vice President of Cooperar, Vice President of ACI Americas, Juan Carlos Fissore and Carlos Gómez, leader of IPES (Institute for Promotion of Solidarity Economy).

Cooperar has also recently singed an agreement with the Argentinian Confederation of Education Professionals (CTERA) in order to work together to promote co-operative values and principles in schools.

According to Ariel Guarco, Cooperar will continue to work with other co-operative federations and mutuals, continuing the integration process. This will enable co-ops and mutuals from all over Argentina to have a greater influence over the decision making process, as representatives of the Argentinian social economy.