ILO Promotes Cooperative-Driven Care Services in Colombia

09 May 2024

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has initiated an innovative interregional and multinational program to enhance cooperatives as providers of high-quality care services under decent working conditions. 

Colombia is a key participant in this program.

The project is part of the National Care System, promoted by Vice President Francia Márquez's Ministry of Equality and Equity. In the latter half of 2023, a national assessment mapped care initiatives across regions, identifying 10 organizations in La Guajira, Cesar, Valle del Cauca, and Chocó. After validation with the ILO, two pilot organizations were selected: the JOSA Women Peacebuilders Association in Cesar, focusing on care in the Arhuaco indigenous community, and ASOREDIPAR Chocó, dedicated to midwifery.

Over the next four months, these organizations will receive training in Think.CareCOOP and Start.CareCOOP methodologies to bolster solidarity economy care providers. The training aims to improve infrastructure and services and develop productive projects that foster decent work for their members. 

The first training session with the JOSA Women Peacebuilders Association involved strengthening a community care center for children and enhancing their fair-trade mochila weaving project.

Following the training, seed capital will be provided to implement the strengthening plans and establish revolving funds. The program will then systematize the experience and refine the methodology with lessons learned. This initiative underscores the ILO's commitment to promoting sustainable, cooperative-driven care services that provide decent work and support community development.