Cooperative Principles

Cooperative principles matter because they empower through democracy, ensuring every member has a voice. Unlike top-down structures, they prioritize fairness, community needs, and collaboration over authoritarian control and profit.

Here are the seven internationally recognized cooperative principles:

Voluntary and Open Membership: Cooperatives are open to all people who are willing to use their services and accept the responsibilities of membership.
Democratic Member Control: Cooperatives are controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.
Member Economic Participation: Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.
Autonomy and Independence: Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.
Education, Training, and Information: Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperative.
Cooperation among Cooperatives: Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together.
Concern for Community: Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.