Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all people – regardless of gender, race, political ideology or religion – who live within our coverage area.

Cooperatives are autonomous, self-reliant organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their cooperative autonomy.

Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in determining policies, making decisions and electing representatives – directors and trustees chosen from the membership. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights – one member, one vote. Cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner.

Members equally contribute to the collection and control of their cooperative's capital. At least part of that capital is usually the common property of the cooperative. Members usually receive limited compensation, if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of membership. Members allocate surpluses proportionally, as approved by the membership.

Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives. They inform the general public, particularly young people and opinion leaders, about the nature and benefits of cooperation.

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

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