With the November 2024 decision of the ICA Members to convene a World Cooperative Congress, the global Cooperative Identity consultation has moved from reflection to action.
This second, and final, consultation phase is focused on the Identity Statement itself. To support it, the Cooperative Identity Advisory Group is releasing a series of discussion drafts setting out possible changes to the Statement. Comment on the drafts is invited from ICA Members and Associates at large, the ICA's Regions, Sectoral Organisations and Thematic Committees and any other interested parties. The number of drafts issued will depend on the feedback received on each.
Discussion Draft 1, with an accompanying commentary, was shared ahead of the 2024 General Assembly. It sparked meaningful conversations, pointing up the need for careful reflection and continued dialogue. You will find it below.
Discussion Draft 2, addressing the key issues raised in New Delhi, was released for comment in June 2025. The comment period closed in November 2025. Discussion Draft 3 is now out for comment. You will find it below, with an accompanying commentary and set of questions to consider as you review it.
The Draft is open for comment until 31 July 2026. To share your views, send an e-mail message to consultations@ica.coop. You may also wish to join the Discussion Forum, where you can debate your views with other cooperators, with the help of automatic translation into 38 languages!
Please bear two things in mind as you reflect on possible changes to the Statement:
-> Under the ICA’s Articles of Association, no changes can be made unless the members of the ICA first call for a Congress to consider possible changes, which they now have, a consultation is held prior to the Congress, the Congress takes place and recommends changes, and a General Assembly following the Congress confirms the recommendations with or without variation.
-> The Board of the ICA has not yet set a time and place for the Congress. It will most likely occur in the first half of 2028.
We look forward to your continued engagement and contributions as we navigate this vital collective journey to strengthen and uphold our shared Cooperative Identity.
