International RAIFFEISEN Union (IRU)

The International Raiffeisen Union (IRU) is a global association founded in 1968, dedicated to promoting cooperative principles established by Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen. It fosters collaboration among national cooperative organizations from various countries, focusing on knowledge exchange and best practices. The IRU aims to adapt Raiffeisen's principles to modern contexts, ensuring that cooperative organizations thrive and avoid detrimental developments. It supports the establishment of cooperatives that prioritize member orientation and free enterprise. Members benefit from information sharing, bilateral contact establishment, and participation in discussions on contemporary cooperative issues. The organization adheres to a strict Code of Conduct, emphasizing legality, partnership, human rights, and sustainability in its operations.