The annual Co-operative Cymru/Wales Conference (in association with the Institute of Welsh Affairs) will, this year, be a special two-day event to celebrate the UN 2012 Year of the Co-operatives.
The conference will focus on how the co-operative model can be utilised in Wales to generate wealth and revitalise local communities, provide for social needs on a not-for-profit basis and be the preferred model of ownership for sporting and cultural organisations.
As UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has put it, “Co-operatives are a reminder to the international community that it is possible to pursue both economic viability and social responsibility.”
A high calibre collection of speakers and discussion sessions will highlight best practice from Wales and other small nations across the world including the Basque Country, Quebec, Ireland and Lesotho.
A focal point for the conference will be the launch of a major report examining the success of the Mondragon Corporation in the Basque Country. Since 1956 Mondragon has been the driving force behind the exponential growth of the co-operative sector in the Basque Country which now employs over 80,000 people and generates approximately 7% of Basque GDP. What can we learn from the Basque experience to enable the co-operative and mutual sector to make an enhanced contribution to the Welsh Economy and Welsh society?
In addition to those with an interest in the co-operative model this is a must-attend event for those (in local and national government as well as the third sector) involved in and looking for innovative solutions in the fields of: housing; social care; economic development; community regeneration; and the developing world.
Conference and booking details
This event is free to attend, please call to register your place on 029 2066 0820 or email emmabrennan@iwa.org.uk