13th Regional Assembly
The biennial Regional Assembly, represented by all members directly, is the highest authority of the ICA Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP). The Regional Assembly, a central policy making and representative body brings together all members once every two years, providing them a platform for discussing multiple issues concerning development and growth of co-operative organisations as well as opportunity for networking and forming alliances for mutual benefit.
The Regional Assembly plays a vital role in strengthening the democratic governance process of cooperatives in the region by building consensus on issues and approving the agenda after discussion to the satisfaction of all members. The first Regional Assembly was held in 1995 and the tradition continues since then. The Regional Assembly encompasses the Cooperative Forum and various events organized by the ICA-AP Regional Committees.
10th Co-operative Forum
The theme for the 2018 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, which oversees the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was, “Transformation towards Sustainable and Resilient societies.” The need to grow the real economy[1], generate conditions for long-term jobs creation and increase wealth which combines economic interests with social and environmental concerns is greater than ever before.
The co-operative enterprise model with its focus on the economic, social, and environmental development of members and strong democratic principles offers viable solution to the social and economic issues of our times. In the aftermath of the global financial and economic crises[2], co-operatives have proven their strength and resilience, benefiting members, employees, and customers. The co-operative enterprise model can reverse the trend of growing inequality and play a crucial role to construct an inclusive and resilient economy founded on values of self-help and solidarity that performs better for all.Click here to read more.
CONFERENCE THEME
The theme for the High-Level Political Forum on sustainable development, which oversees the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, in 2018 is, “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient societies.” In line with this, the theme for the 13th Regional Assembly is, “Co-operatives help Economies become more resilient and sustainable.” The need to grow the real economy, generate conditions for long-term jobs creation and increase wealth which combines economic interests with social and environmental concerns is greater than ever before.
The co-operative business model with its focus on the economic, social, and environmental development of members and strong democratic principles offers the solution to the main social and economic issues of our times. In the aftermath of the global financial and economic crises, co-operatives have proven their strength and resilience, benefiting members, employees, and customers. The co-operative business model can reverse the trend of growing inequality and play a crucial role to construct an economy that performs better for all, based on solidarity.