Kooperatiivsetes

Kooperatiivsetes refers to a system of cooperative enterprises operating in Estonia. Cooperatives are organizations owned and democratically controlled by their members, who can be consumers, producers, or workers. The cooperative movement in Estonia has a long history, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with roots in agricultural and consumer cooperatives.

Following the restoration of Estonia's independence in 1991, the cooperative sector saw renewed development. These enterprises play a significant role in various sectors of the Estonian economy, including agriculture, retail, housing, and forestry. Agricultural cooperatives, for instance, enable farmers to collectively market their products, purchase supplies, and access shared resources, thereby increasing their bargaining power and efficiency. Consumer cooperatives often operate retail stores, providing goods and services to their members at potentially more favorable terms. Housing cooperatives manage apartment buildings, with residents acting as co-owners and decision-makers regarding their living environment.

The fundamental principles guiding kooperatiivsetes, as in cooperatives globally, typically include voluntary and open membership, democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence, education, training, and information, cooperation among cooperatives, and concern for community. These principles aim to ensure that cooperatives serve the interests of their members and contribute to the well-being of their communities. The legal framework for cooperatives in Estonia is established by the Law of Cooperatives, which outlines the rights and obligations of cooperative members and societies.