With the 33rd World Cooperative Congress less than two months away, the International Cooperative Alliance is highlighting the event’s main attractions, whether you plan to attend in-person in Seoul, Republic of Korea or virtually from your own home or office.

1. Celebrate the cooperative legacy and plan for its future

ICA congresses are historical moments for the cooperative movement. This year’s event will see the cooperative movement explore its identity so it can build a more sustainable and resilient future. Using the current global crisis as a framework, discussions will deepen the cooperative identity by examining its values, strengthening its actions, committing to its principles and living its achievements.

2. Get inspired

This year’s congress will feature a range of plenaries and parallel sessions, dealing with crucial issues for the movement such as the digital transition and access to capital. Delegates will hear from inspiring speakers—from filmmakers to cooperative leaders—and exciting cooperatives that are making a difference and driving innovation. For more information, check out the congress website and program.

3. Attend in-person or virtually

The 33rd World Cooperative Congress will be a hybrid event: you can attend in-person in Seoul, Republic of Korea or virtually from your own home or office, ensuring that anyone who wants to attend the event can do so. Organizing this year’s congress as a hybrid event will allow us to continue our cooperative connections, share our stories on our commitment to the communities we serve, and expand our reach.

The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that despite needing to stay distanced to be safe, we can remain engaged with our members through creative and innovative communications channels. To do this, we continue to provide the cooperative movement with the platforms to network with each other, but also seek ways to expand our reach. Learn more about both options here.

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4. Network with other delegates

This year’s congress will bring together delegates from all over the world, so there will be plenty of chances to make valuable connections and share best practices. If you are traveling to Seoul, you can take part in a series of networking sessions, including a gala dinner on December 1. Those participating from home can watch the live stream or the recording of the ceremony. By attending you will be able to not only market your cooperative, but also meet potential business partners.

5. Discover the Korean cooperative movement

Whether you are thinking of traveling to Seoul or attending online, the congress will give you the opportunity to find out more about the cooperative movement in the Republic of Korea. You will hear from successful local cooperatives and, if attending in person, be able to visit them. Those traveling to Korea will also have the chance to explore the local culture, as well as Seoul’s most popular tourist attractions, such as Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Jogyesa Temple.