Cooperative principles today
Abstract
In recent years, a unique phenomenon has occurred in relation to cooperative principles. On the one hand, its recognition by international organizations and governments has been gaining ground with special force, with a growing presence in the legislation on the matter, and, on the other, it seems to have settled within the global organization that is responsible for its custody and dissemination —the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)— a marked effort to critically judge its content and its relevance. This tendency could lead to thematizing theoretical issues rather than promoting the effective and concrete application and expansion of the cooperative principles in the world today, which is the imperative of the ICA and the cooperative movement in general. It is urgent, therefore, to put things in order and not give in to the temptation of complacent reformism. This article constitutes a reflection on the origin and meaning of the principles and a synthetic presentation of its current situation, trying to highlight the need to deepen the cooperative identity without forcing its reform.
Received: 23 February 2025
Accepted: 28 March 2025
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