The Cooperative Model

Aligning the platform ethos with the Cooperative principles

Sourced from The International Cooperative Alliance:

https://www.ica.coop/en/cooperatives/cooperative-identity



Definition of a Cooperative

A cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.

The co-operative values

  • Caring for others
  • Democracy
  • Equity
  • Equality
  • Honesty
  • Openness
  • Self help
  • Self responsibility
  • Solidarity
  • Social responsibility

There are seven co-operative principles that define how a co-op operates


The cooperative principles are guidelines by which cooperatives put their values into practice.


1. Voluntary and Open Membership


Cooperatives 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


Cooperatives 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 cooperatives members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote) and cooperatives 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 cooperative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property of the cooperative. 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 cooperative, possibly by setting up reserves, part of which at least would be indivisible; benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership.


4. Autonomy and Independence


Cooperatives 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 cooperative autonomy.


5. 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 co-operatives. They inform the general public - particularly young people and opinion leaders - about the nature and benefits of co-operation.


6. Cooperation among Cooperatives


Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.


7. Concern for Community


Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.

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