Gender Equality in Cooperatives and the Growing Relevance of Artificial Intelligence

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is a force that cannot be ignored. It has permeated various forms of business, particularly those aligned with globalisation. While the integration of AI into traditional business models has been gradual, its impact is now essential for effective and efficient entrepreneurship. This is especially true for cooperatives, where adopting AI is not just a trend but a crucial step toward future success. Historically, cooperative movements have been male-dominated. In many of the countries, male domination has spread from the traditional times till date, in the society and in various section. In the Global South, there is a prevailing notion that, although no data is suggesting that one gender possesses inherently better expertise or mental capacity than the other, statistics consistently show that fewer women are involved in AI compared to their male counterparts. This imbalance is particularly evident within the cooperative movement in many countries of the Global South, such as India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Uganda. Consequently, it is crucial for cooperatives in these regions, particularly the female gender, to embrace AI to help to change the gender dynamics and increase female representation in feminist cooperativism. To alter these gender dynamics, it is imperative for cooperatives in the Global South to actively promote AI involvement among women. Enhancing female representation in feminist cooperativism through AI not only empowers women but also fosters inclusive growth and innovation within the cooperative movement. Neglecting this imperative could risk marginalising feminist cooperativism further. Therefore, proactive measures are essential to ensure women are not left behind in the AI revolution, particularly within cooperative frameworks. This webinar will examine the role of AI in cooperatives and discuss the importance of female involvement in digital cooperativism while underscoring the transformative potential of AI in fostering gender equality within the cooperative movement.