Rochdale Principles - Definition and Overview

The Rochdale Principles are a set of ideals for the operation of cooperatives. It was first set out by the Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society in 1844.

Original Version, 1844

1. Open membership.
2. Democratic control (one man, one vote).
3. Distribution of surplus in proportion to trade.
4. Payment of limited interest on capital.
5. Political and religious neutrality.
6. Cash trading (no credit extended).
7. Promotion of education.

ICA Version, 1966

1. Open, voluntary membership.
2. Democratic governance.
3. Limited return on equity.
4. Surplus belongs to members.
5. Education of members and public in cooperative principles.
6. Cooperation between cooperatives.

ICA Version, 1996

1. Voluntary and open membership.
2. Democratic member control.
3. Member economic participation.
4. Autonomy and independence.
5. Education, training, and information.
6. Cooperation among cooperatives.
7. Concern for community.

Also see

Rochdale College (an Canadian experiment in Rochdale principles)

External Links

• The International Co-operative Alliance (http://www.ica.coop)
• Cooperative Principles Then and Now (http://cooperativegrocer.coop/articles/index.php?id=158)
• Principles of the International Cooperative Alliance (http://www.wisc.edu/uwcc/icic/def-hist/gen-info/index.html)