The Alliance extends its condolences to the victims and the families of the Paris attacks. The Co-operative Movement expresses its dismay and condemns the attacks.
Demonstrating the shared humanity of people around the world, the co-operative model transcends ideological differences. Its unique model is recognized and valued by world governments and the United Nations. It has proven during times of hardship its capacity to build bridges, by providing a means for people to secure their future and a way out of poverty.
Repeatedly, when the fires of war have burned out, or in the wake of natural disasters, co-operatives have shown a way to rebuild economies and relationships.
Conflict is a zero sum game, in which one party wins, one loses. Co-operation is non-zero sum game, where parties can both do better, by working together.
Peace is core to the co-operative ethos. In responding to the exploitation of labour and the inequality of wealth, the co-operative compass pointed from the outset toward social justice, which we believe, is the key to world peace.
Accounting for peace, communicating for peace, member development for peace, governance for peace – this is what we will be working on today, sharing experience, gaining insights, offering help.
During Towards 2020, our global conference the past week in Antalya, Turkey, delegates from 95 countries joined to debate ways to build a better world. The relationships built there, emphasize the relevance of the co-operative movement to the social justice issues of our day: inclusivity, food security; sustainable environmental practices and meaningful work.
Monique Leroux
President
International Co-operative Alliance
