The Seven Cooperative Principles
22 years of identifying as a cooperative. Now we're stating it formally, in writing, before launch.
A documented record, not a new claim
As far back as 2014, PHIERS.org described itself publicly as a cooperative venture and a collaborative organization — language preserved in the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine. The site also linked directly to Cooperative Development Services, whose own materials point to the International Co-operative Alliance's principles as the standard that guides co-op practice.
We have not formally launched. For 22 years we have been documenting who we are and how we think, without backing away from anything we've claimed. Before launch, we're putting these principles in writing — not as something new, but as proof that we're launching with the same values we started with.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
Open to anyone able to use our services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership — without discrimination of any kind.
2. Democratic Member Control
Members set policy and make decisions. One member, one vote.
3. Members' Economic Participation
Members contribute to and democratically control the cooperative's capital. Surplus benefits members, strengthens the cooperative, and supports activities the membership approves.
4. Autonomy and Independence
Self-help, member-controlled. Any outside agreement — government or otherwise — is entered into on terms that preserve democratic control and our independence.
5. Education, Training, and Information
Members, representatives, and the public deserve to understand how this works and why — not just what to do.
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
We strengthen the broader cooperative movement by working with other cooperatives at every level — local to international.
7. Concern for Community
We work for the sustainable development of our communities, through policies our membership approves.
Still being formalized
Principles 2 and 3 specifically depend on governance structures — bylaws, voting mechanisms, capital control — that are being built out as PHIERS approaches launch. We're naming the standard now, in writing, before claiming to have fully met it. That's the same integrity standard we're asking Congress to meet.
Want to help build this? Tell us in the survey.
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