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The Meaning and Defining Characteristics of Cooperatives

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Theoretical and Empirical Studies on Cooperatives

Part of the book series: SpringerBriefs in Geography ((BRIEFSGEOGRAPHY))

Abstract

Around the world, cooperatives are increasingly being recognised for their invaluable roles in socio-economic development. This recognition has translated into countries and development organisations taking proactive steps towards grounding the cooperative movement so as to maximise their socio-economic benefits. The primary objective of this chapter is to present an overview of the cooperative movement. In doing this, the chapter engages how the cooperative movement has been conceptualised. The chapter also presents the defining characteristics of the cooperative movement and how these translate into the impact they have on the society. The chapter notes that the unique characteristics of cooperatives are what make the sector important in addressing socio-economic challenges.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the ICA is the international umbrella for the global cooperative movement. Its primary goal is to unite the world’s cooperative movement by providing a platform for cooperatives to come together to network, support and share knowledge. It sees itself as the custodian of the principles and values of the cooperative movement. The ICA provides various supports to the cooperative movement including advocacy, capacity building and knowledge sharing.

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  1. School of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa

    Andrew Emmanuel Okem

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    Andrew Emmanuel Okem

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Okem, A.E. (2016). The Meaning and Defining Characteristics of Cooperatives. In: Okem, A. (eds) Theoretical and Empirical Studies on Cooperatives. SpringerBriefs in Geography. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-34216-0_1

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