Coop Dialogue Issue 7: Co-operatives in social and service sector

December 2024, ICA AP

“The International Cooperative Alliance Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP) is delighted to release the seventh edition of COOP Dialogue 7 (CD7), focusing on the role of Cooperatives in the Social and Service Sector.

CD 7 focuses on the vital role of social and service cooperatives in the Asia-Pacific region, showcasing their contributions to sustainable development, social equity, and economic resilience. The lead article examines the central role of cooperatives in advancing social equity and inclusion within the Asia-Pacific region. We showcase examples that demonstrate how cooperatives lead positive social change, particularly in underserved communities, by delivering essential services in sectors such as healthcare, childcare, education, and waste management.

The issue showcases Australia’s innovative “Care Together” program, where cooperatives and mutuals work collaboratively to enhance social services, while also exploring the potential of worker-owned cooperatives in Chennai’s social sectors. Stories, such as Bernard Yu’s Mushroom Buddies initiative and the community services of the Economic and Social Development Center of Palestine (ESDC), demonstrate how cooperatives can empower communities and foster resilience. This edition highlights the relief efforts of Japan’s NFUCA
following the 2024 Noto earthquake and the impactful work of the SWaCH Waste Collectors’ Cooperative in Pune, demonstrating how cooperatives contribute to environmental sustainability and generate meaningful employment opportunities.

In an insightful interview with Ms. Diana Dovgan, Secretary General of CICOPA, we discuss the recent trends, challenges and opportunities for social and services cooperatives. It highlights issues such as regulatory barriers and the importance of support from governments and the private sector.

CD7 underscores the transformative potential of cooperatives in creating equitable, inclusive communities and offers solutions for overcoming the obstacles they face. However, for these cooperatives to continue thriving, they require stronger and adequate legal frameworks, better governance models, and greater support from governments and the private sector. This issue
serves as a call to action for stakeholders to recognise and support the vital role of social and service cooperatives in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.

You can read the previous issues at www.icaap.coop.”