Cooperatives follow seven internationally recognized principles that guide their business conduct:

Voluntary and Open Membership: Non-discriminatory membership open to all who are able to benefit from and assume the responsibilities of membership.

Democratic Member Control: Members democratically own and govern the cooperative.

Member Economic Participation: Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.

Autonomy and Independence: Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations, which are controlled by their members.

Education, Training and Information: Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, directors and staff so that they may effectively run the cooperative. They inform the public about the nature and benefits of cooperatives.

Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Cooperatives serve their members most effectively by working together.

Concern for Community: Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.