Coorperatives Principles
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
Co-operatives are voluntary organisations, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without
gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination.
2. Democratic Member Control
Co-operatives are democratic organisations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions. Men and
women serving as elected representatives are accountable to the membership. In primary co-operatives members have equal voting rights (one member,
one vote) and co-operatives at other levels are also organised in a democratic manner.
3. Member Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property
of the co-operative. Members usually receive limited compensation, if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of membership. Members allocate
surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing their co-operative, possibly by setting up reserves, part of which at least would be indivisible;
benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the co-operative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership.
4. Autonomy and Independence
Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organisations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organisations, including
governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their co-operative
autonomy.
5. Education, Training and Information
Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to
the development of their co-operatives. They inform the general public – particularly young people and opinion leaders – about the nature and benefits of
co-operation.
6. Co-operation among Co-operatives
Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and
international structures.
7. Concern for Community
Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.