Yhteistyöperusteiset

Yhteistyöperusteiset (cooperative principles) are a set of guidelines that outline the democratic and member-focused nature of cooperative enterprises. These principles were first established by the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) in 1882 and have since been adopted and adapted by cooperatives worldwide. The most recent version, known as the Statement on the Co-operative Identity, was adopted in 1995 and includes seven cooperative principles.

The first principle is voluntary and open membership, which means that cooperatives are open to all persons willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination. The second principle is democratic member control, ensuring that cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.

The third principle is member economic participation, which involves members contributing equitably to, and democratically controlling, the capital of the cooperative. The fourth principle is autonomy and independence, emphasizing that cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. However, they can enter into agreements with other organizations or pursue partnerships to better serve their members.

The fifth principle is education, training, and information, highlighting the importance of cooperatives providing education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives. The sixth principle is cooperation among cooperatives, encouraging cooperatives to work together through local, national, regional, and international structures to better serve their members.

The seventh and final principle is concern for community, which states that cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members. These principles collectively define the unique identity of cooperatives and distinguish them from other forms of business organizations.