Canadian Association of Studies in Co-operatives Conference

Co-operatives predate the formation of Canada and have played a major role in social, economic, and political development across the vast expanse of our land since its formation. Indeed, in Canada we have not only benefitted from the activity of individual co-operatives, but also from strong regional co-operative movements in Atlantic Canada, in Quebec, and in Western Canada that have helped to shape our history. There is every reason to believe that co-operatives and co-operative movements can and will continue to be key actors in shaping our future development.

 

In this conference, we will reflect upon how our changing economy and society is raising new challenges and opportunities for local, regional, national, and international communities, and how old and new co-operatives are responding to these challenges and opportunities. These challenges include, among others, overcoming social exclusion, promoting more sustainable forms of production, contributing to regional social and economic development, and enabling greater opportunities for democratic participation in new economic sectors.