Fundamental aspects of the system operation of the dairy products cooperatives from the northwest region of Rio de Janeiro state

Abstract

This study investigates the basis underlying solidary economy that orientates cooperatives. The investigation was carried out by means of an research about the operation adopted by the dairy products cooperatives from the Northwest of Rio de Janeiro State, aiming at investigating the coherences between what is presented and what is experienced in those organizations. Therefore, the objective is to find out up to what extent such organizations act towards the principles of the cooperatives: free and voluntary adhesion; democratic control and the partners' economical participation; independence and autonomy of the cooperatives; education, training and the personnel's formation; integration among the cooperatives and concern with the participants, as well as to present the main results that such organizations offer to the population. The method used for this research is characterized as a case study accomplished by interviews with the cooperative leaders and cooperators. The study allowed to conclude that, indeed, it is necessary to promote a closer relation between the cooperative leaders and their cooperators so that the Solidary Economy may turn out to be practical and bring positive results to the involved population.