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The International Co-operative Alliance accepted
new co-operative principles on September 23, 1995.
Open membership
Co-op membership is open to everyone who needs
the services of the co-op and who accepts the responsibilities of
membership. The board of directors must not discriminate against
anyone and must respect human rights.
Democratic control
Members control their co-op. Together they set
by-laws and policies, make decisions and elect leaders who report
to them. Each member of a co-op has one vote. All members have an
equal say in managing their co-op.
Economic participation
All members contribute fairly to the co-op which
they own in common. Co-ops pay a limited return (if any) on money
that people paid to become members. The co-op holds any surplus
for the future or uses it to improve the co-op's services.
Independence
All agreements that co-ops sign with outside organizations or governments
should leave the members in control of their co-op.
Co-operative education
Every co-op is responsible for offering training to its members, directors and staff. Co-ops should also tell the public what they are and what they do.
Co-operation among co-operatives
Co-ops work together to serve their members through local, national and international structures.
Community
Co-ops meet members' needs in ways that build
lasting communities inside and outside each co-op.
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