Jeroen Douglas’ Post

Theme for 2024 International Day of Cooperatives revealed https://lnkd.in/dEa9f-Ze - The Cooperator News KAMPALA, May 7, 2024 – This year on July 6, cooperatives around the world will celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives with the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better Future for All.” According to the International Cooperative Alliance [UCA], which is the voice of cooperatives worldwide, cooperatives around the world will have the opportunity to showcase their current and historical contributions to building a sustainable future, accelerating efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals [SDG] by 2030. The theme aligns well with the objectives of the upcoming UN Summit of the Future whose theme is “Multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow”. The cooperative identity, values, …

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025) to be celebrated under the theme "Cooperatives Build a Better World." The theme highlights the lasting global impact of cooperatives and emphasizes that the cooperative model is a crucial solution for addressing various global challenges. Additionally, it underscores the significant role cooperatives play in advancing the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The key objectives for IYC25 include: 1) Governments creating an enabling environment for cooperatives 2) Cooperatives promoting public awareness, developing new leaders, and leveraging cooperation 3) Institutions and development agencies promoting cooperatives through education, strengthening capacities, and facilitating international collaboration 4) The public understanding the cooperative identity and supporting cooperative initiatives Związek SERC - Związek Rewizyjny Spółdzielni Energetycznych, Rozwojowych i Cyfrowych #ZwiązekSERC #IYC2025

We recently completed a project with Fingo - Finnish Development NGOs on the "Decolonisation of Aid," where we applied #TransitionDesign methods and tools to reimagine the international development sector. Our designers Savannah Vize (she/her) and Zeynep Falay von Flittner were joined by participants from the Finnish NGO sector, East and West Africa, and artists. Discussing challenging topics such as #decolonization and power shifts in our current system can be emotionally charged, especially given our position as privileged actors who have benefited from historical injustices. We embedded several methods in the process for mindful and compassionate conversations. Read more about the three new approaches we used to acknowledge and create space for complex emotions and systemic issues from our latest blog post: https://lnkd.in/dCGGcW4W Here are some thoughts the participants shared about the workshops: “I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to you and the team for coming up with this initiative (Fingo). The workshop will go a long way to contribute to the development that we’re all forecasting in the future” -Elema Mbandi (ChefElema) Elizabeth, Human Rights Activist for Women/Girls Economic Independence, Ghana “During the workshop, one colleague in my team envisioned the following: “In 2050 everyone is an activist.” I got excited and so did everyone else. Sure, it’s easy to point out that visions like this are not realistic. But so what? We don’t need realistic visions – we need to change. And therefore, we need something to aim at, the right direction. We need anchors in the future. This vision was just that. ” -Mika Niskanen, Communications Specialist, Fingo “The workshop created a safe space to imagine. Building on group members’ ideas fostered an optimism that change is possible. Laying out concrete steps confirmed that the limits are in our heads, not in what we can do together.” -Silla Ristimäki, Programme Manager, Fingo We share our gratitude to our clients Eppu Mikkonen, Senja Vaatainen-Chimpuku. Many thanks also to Eloise Smith-Foster, Adriana Santamaría, and Emily Johnsson, and Regenerators community who shared their experience and wisdom with us about embedding decolonial practices in their work.

📢 🌍 Explore our Annual Report 2023. It is packed with inspiring solutions and our commitment to fostering sustainable development worldwide - with a spotlight on civic engagement 🌍📢 Download our Annual Report here: https://lnkd.in/dPTE3wyq   Civic engagement has long been at the core of our efforts. Our experience shows that when citizens participate in decision-making processes, trust between public authorities and citizens grows. As we accompany our stakeholders on this joint learning journey, they break free from old patterns and fears and discover that participation is mutually beneficial. With democracy facing challenges across the globe, our focus on strengthening participatory processes has become even more relevant.    In our 2023 Annual Report, we highlight how we integrate citizen participation into projects such as water resources management in Kosovo (Iwrm-Kosovo), urban settlement upgrades in Rwanda (PROECCO_Greatlakes), and local governance structures in Moldova. Additionally, our report features various projects where we contribute to sustainable solutions in the #water, #building, #energy, and #governance sectors. You will discover how we have supported our clients and project partners in various settings and roles to create lasting change. We remain committed to improving the lives of people, one person at a time.  We invite you to explore our report for insights and inspiration. Your continued support and engagement play a key role in our success. We are eager to maintain our connection as we continue working towards positive change and progress. Thank you to all our clients and partners! Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Swiss Federal Office of Energy SFOE, Federal Office for the Environment FOEN, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, Austrian Development Agency, The World Bank, Government of Kosovo, Government of Togo, Swiss Solidarity, Helvetas, DESPRO NGO, Intep – Integrale Planung GmbH, Skat Foundation, HEKS/EPER (Swiss Church Aid) , KfW, Pestalozzi Children's Foundation, PointPro Consulting ltd. Skopje, Energynautics GmbH, Aga Khan Foundation, Equidev, a-zimut consulting, Learning Moments, begegnungsreich and many others. #developmentcooperation #impact #AnnualReport2023 #skatConsulting

Why is Denmark such a (relatively) successful society? When having international visitors, this is a question I often get. And when I came across this article from The Guardian, I just had to share it (there are few things Danish people love more than Denmark being brought up in international media). We’re far from perfect, but one critical element that stands out in Denmark and our Nordic cousins is trust—societal trust, to be precise. 💡 One key insight from article is that nearly 74%* of Danes believe “most people can be trusted,” more than any other nationality. Part of this story is the visionary ideas behind "folk bildung" a concept promoting continuous education and democratic participation. This cultural fabric supports our welfare system, which was envisioned to create mutual trust and equality. Trust is hard to gain and easy to lose, but it's the glue that holds our society together. But how will this look in the futures? This trust isn’t just about feeling safe leaving bikes and babies unattended outside café; it translates into economic and social benefits, reducing costs for security and fostering easier business transactions. ❗ But trust is under threat. Misinformation and disinformation, a widening urban-rural divide, and political pressures challenge our social cohesion. We must actively nurture trust by showing empathy to those different from us and extending trust without expecting anything in return. What’s the takeaway? We need trust to move in a more sustainable direction and towards greater well-being. 👉 What are your thoughts on the role of trust in society? How can we foster greater trust in our own communities? For the ones looking to learn more about trust as a concept, I really recommend this game about human behavior, game theory and why trust can be so difficult: https://ncase.me/trust/ *Our World in Data has more data on trust in others across the globe: https://lnkd.in/duKBb43U #trust #futures #misinformation

Innovation in the African cooperative movement has been lauded as the most potent instrument to fuel transformation toward driving economic and social progress. Africa is currently galvanizing its efforts to position itself at the cutting edge of innovation by institutionalizing systems that drive learning for innovation. The African Confederation of Cooperative Savings & Credit Associations (ACCOSCA) is furthering its vision of an inclusive, just, and equitable Africa by moving beyond the glass cliff and addressing structural inequalities. Through the upcoming 2024 Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada -- Coopératives et mutuelles Canada (CMC) Congress, the African cooperative movement is set to benefit by cultivating strategies on how to bridge divides, amplify voices, and harness innovation for social impact. Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada -- Coopératives et mutuelles Canada is the national member-driven association building bridges, breaking barriers, and advocating for over 7,000 Canadian small and medium enterprises, co-operatives, and mutuals. Under the theme “Navigating Change Together”, the 2024 CMC Congress convenes global cooperative leaders to network and dialogue on pertinent issues facing the cooperative sector. Together, we can build a brighter future through purposeful innovation that can advance social justice for all in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development | Karen Miner | Doug O'Brien | Andrea Nemtin (M.S.M.) | Martin Boucher, Ph.D. | Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada -- Coopératives et mutuelles Canada | International Centre for Co-operative Management | Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary's University | Nova Scotia Co-operative Council

NOKS continues its expansion. Exciting new developments are beginning in Africa and a new Hub is already well on the way for Nairobi. Another is being planned for Italy, and our thanks to Marco and Enrica Disperati for undertaking this. John Vanlandschoote will be proceeding with plans for a Hub in Sofia and hopefully in Bucharest. Sir Ian Anderson is working closely with others regarding a Hub in London. As NOKS expands and raises awareness more and more gifted people are joining us. The latest is Zeno Goldsmith, who has an event in Tuscany in July which Sir Ian Anderson will be attending. The original concept of high quality people who have the right intentions towards humanity still stands. It is hoped that this gathering will cement those principles and build on them as Zeno embraces what we stand for. He will no doubt greatly add to it via his invaluable connections. It is all about the right connections. By encouraging people who have the endeavour, and the energy to project what we stand for, and who actually want to change the world for the better. For that is the underlying message, and to highlight what needs to be done practically and realistically. The network of Hubs is intended to galvanise support and intention in a particular area which people can connect to in that country. Antwerp has been the first working fully fledged example, where expertise and devotion to doing good has been expanded into areas that require addressing. Others are shortly to develop, not least in Lagos/Abuja, Benin and Singapore. With regard to the work we are highlighting. Two of our main aims at the moment centre around helping children and women who are the subject of abuse. Those two issues should be our priority, aside from special needs projects elsewhere. It is vital that vulnerable children and women are protected and given the means for a decent life. The Antwerp Hub is busy working on such a project there and we do all we can to support people like Chrissy Sykes with My Body Is My Body, and highlight the work that Refuge does in the UK. Lady Patience is also pursuing a similar agenda in Nigeria. We need to expand this awareness to other countries and make people understand that this area is vital for our future in keeping such people safe. Please help where you can when you can, if able, in line with our principles and objectives. Michael Saunders GIKC Chancellor and Secretary secretariat@nobleorderofkingsolomon.org

Ever wondered why Denmark is known as the world's most trusting country? 🌍🔍 Well, a recently published article by the Guardian delves into this topic. It explores how Denmark has created a society where trust is fundamental, impacting everything from personal interactions to the economy.   In Denmark, trust is not just a word; it's a way of life. Nearly 74% of Danes believe that "most people can be trusted" - a staggering statistic that places them at the top of global trust rankings. This trust extends to various aspects of life, including social and civic trust, meaning Danes feel confident in their fellow citizens and institutions like the government and the police.   What makes this level of trust possible? The article suggests that a mix of historical, cultural, and social factors contribute. For one, Denmark has a robust welfare state built on mutual trust and equality. This system provides citizens with universal benefits and services, fostering a profound sense of security and belonging. Moreover, the Danish society places a high value on community and collective well-being, with many people participating in communal activities and trusting their neighbours.   Additionally, Denmark's urban design and public spaces enhance this trust. The shared courtyard model in Danish apartment buildings encourages interaction and a sense of community. Children play unsupervised in these safe, communal areas, which is a testament to parents' trust in their environment.   If you're intrigued by how Denmark has achieved such a high level of trust and why it matters, check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eeE28M-t

This article also explains how #cooperatives can help promote sustainable development! #SustainableDevelopment

RACE for 2030 partner, the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia inc. (ICCIAUS) is a non-profit organisation committed to supporting and boosting business relations between Italy and Australia. They provide a helping hand to companies, both in Italy and Australia, to succeed in their business ventures and create opportunities within the clean energy research space and to bring innovation across the geographies.    The Italian Chamber is at the forefront of business both in Australia and Italy, offering a wide range of services to members and non-members to assist in trade and investments in both directions. The Chamber in Sydney is the oldest Italian Chamber of Commerce in Australia.   ICCIAUS is part of Assocamerestero, an association of 84 Italian Chambers around the world, operating in 61 countries creating a network of over 20,000 members with a global turnover of 75 million dollars and over 2,500 employees. RACE looks forward to working with the Italian Chamber of Commerce to tackle the challenges faced by their member companies in the energy/climate space.  #collaboration #research #cleanenergy #climatechange #energychallenge