Statement from JCCU on the Resolution Calling for the Promotion of Cooperatives Adopted by the National Diet of Japan in Commemoration of the International Year of Cooperatives

2025.06.17

In light of the recent adoption of the Resolution Calling for the Promotion of Cooperatives to Mark the International Year of Cooperatives by the National Diet of Japan, JCCU issues the following statement:

The aforementioned resolution was formally adopted at the plenary session of the House of Representatives on May 27, and subsequently at the plenary session of the House of Councillors on May 28.

The resolution affirms the importance of advancing cooperative enterprises and calls upon the government to promote their development in accordance with the following three foundational principles:
  1. In the formulation and execution of policies concerning cooperatives, the government shall give due regard to internationally recognized documents, including the 1995 International Cooperative Alliance Statement on the Cooperative Identity.
  2. Cooperatives are to be duly recognized as essential contributors to the sustainable development of local communities.
  3. Consideration must be given to the support and advancement of cooperatives as non-profit private sector organizations.

This resolution is historic, as it marks the first time the National Diet of Japan has officially acknowledged the shared values, functions, and policy framework of cooperatives in a comprehensive manner.

Under the theme of the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives, "Cooperatives Build a Better World", Japanese consumer cooperatives regard this Commemorative year as a vital opportunity to enhance public understanding of cooperatives, to foster deeper collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, and to further the pursuit of a sustainable and inclusive society.

As integral members of the global cooperative movement, Japanese consumer cooperatives wholeheartedly welcome the resolution adopted by the National Diet. 

We shall continue to dedicate ourselves - through both our business endeavors and social initiatives - to the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We earnestly appeal for the continued understanding and support of the general public for the mission and activities of consumer cooperatives and the cooperative movement as a whole.

Reference Pages:
Content of the Resolution Adopted by the House of Representatives (in Japanese):
Content of the Resolution Adopted by the House of Councillors (in Japanese):
English Translation of the Resolution (Provisional, House of Representatives Website):
JCA Comment (in English):

tags: International Year of Cooperatives, Promotion of Cooperatives, Resolution by the National Diet of Japan