Co-op Principles
A Healthy Community
A Healthy Community
Co-op membership is open to everyone who needs the services of the co-op and who accepts the responsibilities of membership. The Board of Directors must not discriminate against anyone and must respect human rights.
Co-operative education
Co-operative education
Every co-op is responsible for offering training to its members, directors and staff. Co-ops should also tell the public what they are and what they do.
Democratic Control
Democratic control
Members control their co-op. Together they set by-laws and policies, make decisions and elect leaders who report to them. Each member of a co-op has one vote. All members have an equal say in managing their co-op.
Co-operation among co-operatives
Co-operation among co-operatives
Co-ops work together to serve their members through local, national and international structures
Independence
Independence
All agreements that co-ops sign with outside organizations or governments should leave the members in control of their co-op.
Community
Community
Co-ops meet members’ needs in ways that build lasting communities inside and outside each co-op.
