The Preamble to the Constitution of the International Co-operative Alliance

The Preamble to the Constitution of the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) outlines the fundamental purpose and guiding principles of the organization. It states that co-operatives are voluntary, democratic groups formed by people to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs through jointly owned and controlled enterprises. The Preamble emphasizes solidarity, mutual aid, and the importance of empowering members while promoting social justice, fair trade, and sustainable development. It sets the moral and philosophical foundation for the ICA’s work, reinforcing the belief that co-operatives serve both individual and community interests through democratic participation and shared responsibility.