The values and principles embraced by today’s worldwide co-operative movement have evolved from the ideals of the early co-operators of the 18th and 19th centuries. They are in the statement of Co-operative identity published by the International Co-operative Alliance.

For more information about the origins of co-operation, please visit the National Co-operative Archive.

Values

Co-operatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, co-operatives members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.

Principles

The co-operative principles are guidelines by which co-operatives put their values into practice.

1. Voluntary and open membership

Co-operatives 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.

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

4. Autonomy and independence.

Co-operatives 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 co-operative autonomy.

5. Education, training and information.

Co-operatives provide education and training fortheir members, elected representatives, managers and employees so that they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-operative. They inform the general public - particularly young people and opinion leaders - about the nature and benefits of co-operation.

6. Co-operation among co-operatives.

Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local,national, regional and international structures.

7. Concern for community.

Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.