Principles of Co-operatives

First Principle - Voluntary & Open Membership
Co-operatives are voluntary organizations, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political or religious discriminations.

Second Principle – Democratic Member Control
Co-operatives are democratic organizations, controlled by their members, who “actively” participate in setting their policies and making decisions.

Third Principle – Member Economic Participation
Members democratically control the capital of their co-operative.

Fourth Principle – Autonomy and Independence
Co-operatives are autonomous; self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements, with say governments, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and that maintain their co-operative autonomy.

Fifth Principle 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-operative.

Sixth Principle. Co-operation Among Co-operatives
Co-operatives serve their members most effectively by working together.

And the Seventh Principle. The International Co-operative Movement adopted it in 1995. (And, it is personally my favorite principle) Concern For the Community
Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.