Japan Adopts Resolution to Support Cooperatives in IYC 2025

In recognition of the United Nations’ declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC), Japan’s House of Representatives (27 May) and House of Councillors (28 May) passed a resolution supporting the cooperative movement.

The resolution highlights the role of cooperatives in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting social and economic progress. It calls on the government to:

• Promote cooperatives nationwide
• Respect the Definition, Values, and Principles outlined in the ICA’s Statement on Cooperative Identity
• Position cooperatives as powerful entities in the creation of sustainable local communities, and
• Note the development of cooperatives as private, non-profit organizations democratically managed and operated by many people as members.

Minister of State for Special Missions, Ms. Junko Mihara, affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cooperative efforts to address social challenges.

Watch the session here: https://youtu.be/zxPStSTl4kw?si=ZmfOVF3Oi6v23-aR

Read the statement by Japan Cooperative Alliance: https://www.japan.coop/wp/19181