PRINCIPLE #1
Voluntary and Open Membership
We are a voluntary organization, open to all people able to use our services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination.
PRINCIPLE #2
Democratic Member Control
We are a democratic organization controlled by our members – those who buy the goods or use our services – who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.
PRINCIPLE #3
Members’ Economic Participation
Members contribute equally to, and democratically control, the capital of our credit union. This benefits members in proportion to the business they conduct with the credit union rather than on the capital invested.
PRINCIPLE #4
Autonomy and Independence
We are autonomous, a self-help organization controlled by our members. If we enter into agreements with other organizations or raise capital from external sources, it is done so based on terms that ensure democratic control by the members and maintains the credit union’s autonomy.
PRINCIPLE #5
Education, Training and Information
We provide education and training for our members, elected representatives, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their credit union. Members also inform the general public about the nature and benefits of credit unions
PRINCIPLE #6
Cooperation among Cooperatives
We serve our members most effectively and strengthen the credit union movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.
PRINCIPLE #7
Concern for Community
While focusing on member needs, we work for the sustainable development of communities through policies and programs accepted by our members.