VALUES & PRINCIPLES
Co-operatives are rooted in a strong set of core values that guide our actions and principles. These foundational values uphold the essence of collaboration, promoting a sense of unity and collective well-being among our members.
Self-Help
Members actively participate in building our collective strength, pooling resources, and leveraging mutual support to address common challenges and achieve shared objectives. Through self-help, co-operatives empower individuals to take control of their own destinies.
Self-Responsibility
Co-operative members embrace self-responsibility, understanding that our active engagement and commitment contribute to the success of the collective enterprise. Each member plays a vital role in shaping the co-operative’s direction and is accountable for their actions, fostering a culture of ownership and dedication.
Democracy
Democracy forms the cornerstone of co-operative governance. Members enjoy equal rights and have a say in the decision-making processes, ensuring that the collective will is reflected in the co-operative’s actions. This democratic approach nurtures transparency and inclusivity — an environment where every voice is valued.
Equality
Co-operatives are built on the principle of equality, where all members are treated with respect and fairness. Regardless of position or contribution, each member’s voice carries equal weight, promoting a sense of dignity and unity in the co-operative movement.
Equity
In addition to equality, co-operatives uphold the value of equity. We recognize that individual needs may vary and strive to ensure that resources and benefits are distributed in a fair and just manner, addressing the specific requirements of each member.
Solidarity
Solidarity is the lifeblood of co-operatives, driving them to stand together in times of challenges and opportunities. Members support one another, building a strong sense of community and shared purpose. Through solidarity, co-operatives exemplify the power of collective action in creating positive change.
In keeping with the ideals of our visionary founders, co-operative members uphold ethical values that embody the essence of cooperation and mutual respect. These values include honesty, which builds trust and fosters transparent communication; openness, which encourages free exchange of ideas and diverse perspectives; social responsibility, which drives co-operatives to actively contribute to society; and caring for others, which emphasizes empathy and compassion in our interactions.
By living and promoting these co-operative values, members create an empowering ecosystem that not only strengthens our operations but also enriches the lives of the individuals and communities we serve. Co-operatives stand as shining examples of how collective action, driven by a shared set of values, can lead to an inclusive sustainable growth.
Co-operatives, driven by our core values, diligently follow a set of guiding principles that direct our actions and define our essence.
Voluntary and Open Membership
Co-operatives embrace inclusivity, welcoming all individuals who can benefit from our services and are willing to uphold the responsibilities of membership. Discrimination based on gender, social status, race, political affiliation, or religious beliefs has no place in these voluntary organizations.
Democratic Member Control
At the heart of co-operatives lies democracy, where members actively participate in shaping policies and making crucial decisions. Elected representatives remain accountable to the membership. In primary co-operatives, the principle of “one member, one vote” ensures equal voting rights, while co-operatives at other levels also uphold democratic practices.
Member Economic Participation
Co-operative members contribute equitably to the capital and democratically govern our collective resources. A portion of this capital typically becomes common property. While members may receive limited compensation on our contributed capital, this isn’t a prerequisite for membership. Surpluses generated are allocated to develop the co-operative, establish reserves, distribute dividends, reward members based on our transactions as patronage refund, and support other activities.
Autonomy and Independence
Co-operatives stand as autonomous, self-reliant entities under the control of our members. When entering agreements with external organizations, governments, or raising capital from outside sources, we do so with a commitment to maintaining democratic control and preserving co-operative autonomy.
Education, Training, and Information
To empower members, elected representatives, managers, and employees, co-operatives provide education and training, fostering a capable and engaged workforce. We actively educate the general public, especially youth and influential leaders, about the essence and advantages of co-operative collaboration.
Cooperation among Co-operatives
Recognizing the strength in unity, co-operatives thrive by collaborating through local, national, regional, and international structures. By working together, we best serve the interests of our members and contribute to the overall growth and impact of the co-operative movement.
Concern for Community
Co-operatives embrace the role as catalysts for sustainable community development. The policies we implement are carefully aligned with the needs and aspirations of our members, ensuring the well-being and progress of the communities we serve.
By upholding these co-operative principles, these organizations harness the power of collective effort, fostering fairness, equality, and social responsibility in the pursuit of shared economic and societal goals. Co-operatives play a pivotal role in building a more inclusive, empowered, and sustainable world for generations to come.