työosuuskuntien

Työosuuskunnat, or worker cooperatives, are a form of business organization where the workers are also the owners and decision-makers of the enterprise. Membership in a työosuuskunta is typically voluntary and based on employment within the cooperative. The core principle is democratic control, meaning each member usually has an equal say in the management and strategic direction of the business, often through a one-member, one-vote system.

Profits generated by a työosuuskunta are generally distributed among the members based on their contribution to the work, rather than solely on capital investment. This can be done through wages, dividends, or reinvestment into the cooperative. The primary goal is often to provide stable and meaningful employment for its members while also ensuring the economic viability of the business.

Työosuuskunnat can operate in a wide range of industries, from services and retail to manufacturing and agriculture. They are often seen as an alternative to traditional hierarchical business structures, emphasizing collaboration, solidarity, and shared responsibility. The legal framework and specific operational details can vary by jurisdiction, but the fundamental concept of worker ownership and control remains central to their identity. They aim to create a more equitable and sustainable economic model for their members.