July 24, 2012
MEDIA RELEASE
20th ANNIVERSARY OF THE REBIRTH OF THE COOPERATIVE MOVEMENT IN UKRAINE – A SIGNIFICANT EVENT IN THE HISTORY OF THE UKRAINIAN COMMUNITY
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the rebirth of the cooperative movement in Ukraine, which is a significant event for both Ukraine and the Ukrainian diaspora.
The history of the Ukrainian cooperative movement dates back to the late XIX century – a period characterized by foreign occupation of Ukrainian lands and the Ukrainian nation’s struggle for independence. As an integral part of Ukrainian national life, the Ukrainian cooperative movement from its beginnings became an important factor in improving the prosperity of Ukrainians and supporting their national needs.
Eliminated during the Soviet era, the Ukrainian cooperative movement was only able to re-establish itself in 1992 following Ukraine’s proclamation of independence. Contributing to this rebirth were the World Council of Ukrainian Cooperatives, a council of the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), and Ukrainian financial institutions in Canada, the USA and Australia. They offered credit unions in Ukraine operational and technical support, including the financing of foreign training and internships for credit union staff, professional expertise and community assistance.
The UWC extends greetings to all Ukrainian cooperatives on the 20th anniversary of the rebirth of the cooperative movement in Ukraine with wishes for continued success for the benefit of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people based on the principles of cooperation and consolidation.
The UWC is the international coordinating body for Ukrainian communities in the diaspora representing the interests of over 20 million Ukrainians. The UWC has member organizations in 32 countries and ties with Ukrainians in 15 additional countries. Founded in 1967 as a non-profit corporation, the UWC was recognized in 2003 by the United Nations Economic and Social Council as a non-governmental organization (NGO) with special consultative status.
