The role of Cooperativism in the Transformation of Agrifood Systems in Latin America and the Caribbean

Since the proclamation of the first International Year of Cooperatives in 2012, the international community has recognized their importance in building a more inclusive and sustainable development. In 2024, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2025 as the second International Year of Cooperatives, encouraging Member States to promote cooperatives and raise awareness of their contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals.

FAO has highlighted the key role of agrifood cooperatives in improving food security, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, increasing productivity, and expanding access to rural services. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the FAO Regional Office has worked closely with cooperatives, strengthening their capacities through technical cooperation, research, and policy dialogue spaces, positioning them as key actors in the transformation of agrifood systems. FAO remains committed to the cooperative model, promoting a “Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment and a Better Life”, leaving no one behind.

Event objective

To raise awareness about the situation of cooperatives in Latin America and the Caribbean and analyze their contribution to the transformation of agrifood systems.

Target Audience

The event will have the in-person participation of representatives from the cooperative sector of Latin America and the Caribbean, government, United Nations agencies and the academic sector. Additionally, it will be streamed live for those to who wish to follow the event online.