As the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025) gets underway, this guest blog from ICMIF Chair Rob Wesseling offers timely insight into the growing relevance of the cooperative and mutual models. Rob, who also serves as President and CEO of Co-operators (Canada), explores the current momentum behind our global movement and the vital role collaboration plays in addressing today’s shared challenges. His reflections highlight how values-based leadership and international partnerships are shaping a stronger, more resilient future. We are pleased to share his perspective at this important moment for our sector.

This is a challenging time for communities everywhere. From economic uncertainty and climate risks to growing gaps in protection, people are facing uncertainty. In the middle of all this, we remain strong. Cooperatives and mutual insurers don’t just provide coverage. They stand for consistency, trust, and long-term support when it matters most.

With 2025 recognised by the United Nations (UN) as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), we all have an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the cooperative and mutual model and demonstrate why it matters and how it makes a difference, especially as the world faces economic pressure, rising social challenges, and the need for bold, values-based leadership.

Global collaboration and advocacy through CM50

Created by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), with the aim to expand the cooperative and mutual market share as part of the UN 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development and beyond, the CM50 brings together leaders from more than 20 countries working together to grow the mutual and cooperative sector worldwide. Their goal is to present a shared Charter and Commitment Plan at the Second United Nation (UN) World Summit of Social Development (WSSD2) later this year.

Being part of CM50 is more than a professional milestone. It’s personal. It reflects my belief in the power of co-operation and the idea that when we lead with shared values, we can shape stronger economies and more resilient communities. It’s inspiring to be part of a global movement that is bringing renewed attention to a model grounded in people, purpose, and long-term impact.

That momentum is showing up not only among global cooperative leaders. It’s also reflected in government action as well. In the UK, as an example, new funding guidance has been established highlights support for cooperative activities, including professional development, advisory services, and community-based collaboration.

Initiatives, such as these, are designed to strengthen local economies, improve resilience in sectors like fisheries and aquaculture, and promote cooperative solutions through training, data sharing, and inclusive engagement. It’s another sign of growing recognition that the cooperative model offers practical, people-centered responses to the challenges communities face today.

ICMIF’s role

At ICMIF, we continue to focus on what makes our network strong: open collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and helping each other respond to real-world challenges. Whether it’s a public health crisis, a natural disaster, or a financial shock, our members regularly share lessons and best practices to help strengthen outcomes for communities around the globe.

We are already seeing how our members are turning collaboration into meaningful action. In Brazil, Seguros Unimed is leading in providing financial protection for hospitals and clinics when medical equipment like MRI and CT scanners are out of service. This is a critical need that helps avoid disruptions in patient care across their vast cooperative network.

In Africa, ARC Ltd. has joined forces with the International Finance Corporation to strengthen climate insurance for smallholder farmers, helping unlock investment in sustainable agriculture and protect livelihoods while addressing increasing climate uncertainty.

And in Canada, Co-operators has partnered with Gore Mutual through the Climate and Equity Lab to develop solutions that address climate risks in vulnerable urban communities. Together, ICMIF’s members are working across sectors to improve resilience, shape policy, and to ensure that climate action leaves no one behind.

Rooted in long-term thinking, ICMIF members are working toward a more sustainable and inclusive future that reflects the values at the heart of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through disaster risk reduction, financial inclusion, and community support, our members are proving that this model works and delivers lasting impact.

So now we look ahead. We know that we can solve the issues we face alone. By working together across borders, sectors, and governments, we can close protection gaps, improve resilience, and continue building fairer systems that put people first.

2025 gives us a platform to leverage our shared purpose to further catalyse the growth of our movement. Let’s use it to show what’s possible when collaboration isn’t just a value—it’s the foundation of our success.