The Seven Basic Principles

1. Co-operatives are voluntary organisations, 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.
2. Co-operatives are democratic organisations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions. All members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote).
3. Members contribute equitably to and democratically control the capital of their co-operative. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes; development, reserves fund and to support social activities.
4. Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organisations controlled by their members.
5. Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees.
6. Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.
7. Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.