The Voice of Youth in the Cooperative Movement

It is a truth universally acknowledged that young people are the world’s future. Yet a crucial question remains: How can the next generation influence decisions that affect them today, when society expects them to “wait for experience”?

Young people already have a voice—and the Young European Cooperators Network (YECN) exists to ensure that voice is heard. The YECN unites young cooperators across Europe, creating opportunities for learning, participation, and the promotion of cooperation as a democratic and sustainable economic model.

A Historic Milestone: The Formalisation of the YECN

This month, the YECN reached a defining moment: its official formalisation as a unified network.

Thirty young cooperators from 14 countries and 17 nationalities came together to celebrate ten years of youth-led cooperative engagement. Although I have only been part of this journey for the past year, I can confidently say that the YECN is driven by dedicated and visionary young people who are eager to build a fairer world through collaboration.

Harnessing Collective Knowledge and Creativity

During the sessions, it became clear that assumptions about young people lacking experience could not be further from the truth. Discussions centred on generational renewal, youth inclusion, and strengthening the cooperative identity, revealing remarkable insight and innovation.

The event included:

  • Approval of the Terms of Reference

  • Vision-setting for the 2026 programme

  • Budget planning through democratic decision-making

These decisions paved the way for electing the first YECN Steering Committee and launching new collaborative projects across Europe.

Portugal as a Living Classroom for Cooperation

Portugal provided a vibrant backdrop for the Network’s activities. Alongside formal discussions, participants had the opportunity to learn directly from the Portuguese cooperative ecosystem.

Highlights included:

  • A presentation on the cooperative sector in Porto by Eduardo Graça, President of CASES

  • A scenic boat tour along the Douro River

  • Visits to local cooperatives such as Povo Portuense, CerciGaia, Maiêutica

  • A visit to the Porto Chamber of Commerce

These experiences showcased the depth and diversity of the Portuguese cooperative model while strengthening personal bonds among participants.

A Collective Achievement with European Impact

Reflecting on the event, Anna Loscalzo, President of the YECN, shared:

This event was a true collective achievement that was both emotional and inspiring. It shows what young cooperators can achieve when we collaborate with trust, creativity, and a shared belief in the cooperative model.

Anna Loscalzo, President - YECN

For Malta, this is a particularly meaningful development. It grants young Maltese cooperators a direct seat at the European discussion table, helping them grow as leaders and strengthen the cooperative movement back home.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Youth Cooperation

The formalisation of the YECN marks only the beginning of a new chapter for youth cooperation in Europe. It is a powerful step toward building stronger networks, shared initiatives, and a more resilient cooperative future.

My hope is that Malta continues to encourage and empower young cooperators, fostering unity, purpose, and participation for generations to come.