The 7 Co-op Principles

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

First Principle

Voluntary and Open Membership Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, 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.

Second Principle

Democratic Member Control Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions.

Third Principle

Member Economic Participation Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.

Fourth Principle

Autonomy and Independence Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.

Fifth Principle

Education, Training and Information Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees, and they inform the general public about the nature and benefits of cooperation.

Sixth Principle

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

Seventh Principle

Concern for Community While focusing on members’ needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members.