The Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert Houngbo, has underscored the critical role of cooperatives in promoting peace, decent work and social justice amid growing global uncertainty.

In his message marking the 2026 International Day of Cooperatives, celebrated under the theme, ‘Cooperatives for a Peaceful World,’ Houngbo said peace extends beyond the absence of conflict and must be anchored in social justice.

He noted that the world is facing increasing challenges, including conflict, displacement, inequality, economic insecurity, environmental disruption and declining public trust, stressing that cooperatives have become indispensable in building resilient and inclusive societies.

According to him, cooperative enterprises create jobs and sustainable livelihoods, strengthen local economies, ensure access to essential goods and services, and empower people through democratic participation and shared responsibility.

Houngbo disclosed that more than one billion people worldwide are members of cooperatives, while
cooperative enterprises employ one in every 10 workers globally.

He added that the world’s 300 largest cooperatives and mutual organisations generate nearly $2.8 trillion in combined yearly turnover.

The ILO chief also reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to implementing its Promotion of Cooperatives Recommendation, which calls on governments to establish supportive legal and policy frameworks that recognise the unique nature of cooperatives and uphold cooperative values and principles.

He further emphasised that cooperatives play a crucial role in fostering stability, creating employment opportunities and strengthening community resilience, particularly during periods of crisis.

“As we mark this International Day of Cooperatives, let us recognise cooperatives for their role in bringing people together for a more peaceful world rooted in decent work and social justice,” he said.