- Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Co-operative Alliance
- Cooperatives trace the roots of these principles to the first modern cooperative founded in Rochdale, England in 1844
- These principles are a key reason that America’s electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of their members first
Understanding the 7 Cooperative Principles:
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Co-operative Alliance.
These principles are a key reason why America’s electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of our members first.
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions,
Elected representatives (directors/trustees) are elected from among the membership and are accountable to the membership. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote); cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner.
Members’ Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the cooperative. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing the cooperative, setting up reserves, benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative, and supporting other activities approved by the membership
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity.
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity.
