The history of the National Council of Industrial Producer Cooperatives (TPK) has now reached the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy as well.

26/08/2024

The documentary exhibition "105 Years Since the Establishment of the National Union of Labour-Productive Cooperatives in Bulgaria" will be hosted at the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy from August 26 until early September.

The exhibition was officially opened by the Minister of Labour and Social Policy, Ivaylo Ivanov, who highlighted the fundamental importance of the National Union of Labour-Productive Cooperatives and its members to the development of the social and solidarity economy sector in Bulgaria. "Your activities are founded on values ​​such as solidarity, shared interest, democratic governance, and investment in human capital. These same values ​​underpin key policies developed and implemented by our Ministry," stated Minister Ivanov.

"Throughout its development, the Union has changed its name, yet it has preserved its core essence: to serve as a national association of cooperative organizations built upon shared values ​​and established international principles. Today, the Union and its members successfully achieve a challenging balance—combining economic performance with social goals and functions," said Assoc. Prof. Vladislav Lazarov, Chairman of the National Union of Labour-Productive Cooperatives.

The exhibition "105 Years Since the Establishment of the National Union of Labour-Productive Cooperatives in Bulgaria" features archival documents, excerpts from publications, and photographs that trace the history of the Union from its founding in 1919 to the present day. The project is a joint initiative of the National Council of Producer Cooperatives (NSTPK) and the State Archives Agency, under the patronage of Vice President Iliana Iotova.

Some of the documents in the exhibition also highlight the partnership between the Ministry of Labour and the National Council of Producer Cooperatives across various areas, including the organization of the European Forum of Social and Solidarity Economy Entities—the largest event of its kind in Southeast Europe.

The exhibition will also be presented at the regional centers for the development of the social economy across the country.