The EU Commission recognises the crucial role co-operatives play in Civil Society in a communication released on 12 September.
The communication, ‘The roots of democracy and sustainable development: Europe’s engagement with Civil Society in External relations’, recognises that co-operatives can make a specific contribution to inclusive and sustainable growth.
It looks at Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) made up of membership-based, cause-based and service oriented organisations – including co-operatives.
The EU Commission states in their report: “Association of co-operatives […] are particularly active in promoting entrepreneurship and job creations by mobilising grassroots communities, delivering services and stimulating income generating activities for the poor and marginalised”.
Further it states: “The EU will support CSO initiatives and partnerships, which combine social and economic ambitions”.
The report continues, emphasising that “particular attention should be given to job creation and entrepreneurship responsive to community needs”.
Klaus Niederländer, Director of the ICA's regional body Co-operatives Europe, commented: “This latest communication of the EU recognises the crucial role of co-operatives in development through job creation and the provision of social services. It also demonstrates that co-operatives are enterprises and civil society organisations at the same time.”
The communication identifies key areas where co-operative enterprises are sustainable, it states: “CSOs stand out thanks to their capacity to reach out to, empower, represent and defend vulnerable and socially excluded groups, and trigger social innovation. Against this background, governments in several countries have strengthened their engagement with CSOs.”
It continues by proposing the Commission provide “an enhanced and more strategic approach in its engagement with local CSOs covering all regions, including developing, neighbourhood and enlargement countries.”
It concludes by adding: “In an evolving international landscape and in consideration of EU external policies, the proposals put forward in this communication are meant to boost EU relations with civil society organisations and adapt them to current and future challenges.
“A renewed EU response is proposed with a view to empower primarily local CSOs in their actions for democratic governance and equitable development.”
Picture: Co-operatives Europe Director Klaus Niederländer.
