The Second Cooperative Wave: A Shared Vision

Abstract

Roberto Rodrigues brings to The Second Wave the same passion with which he has energized the cooperative sector for decades, and particularly over the last 12 years while he served as its international leader Rodrigues inspires us all to confront the globalization of markets with a fu ll frontal assault of our cooperative values. His vision is the globalization o f our cooperative values: A vision where economic suc cess brings to all people economic opportunity and access to markets instead of concentration of wealth and market exclusion. Perhaps most importantly, Rodrigues does not shun the fundamental economic principles to which all businesses must adhere but instead embraces them as not only compatible with people-centered businesses, but essential to the cooperative movement’s success. I couldn’t agree more. There is no question in my mind that Rodrigues’ Second Wave has already begun rolling around the globe. In the U.S., cooperatives are merging and building strategic alliances to expand their business opportunities and allow them to compete head on with investor-owned multinationals. And new cooperatives are form ed daily. They all share a bond - they are using cooperative values to bring opportunity in an era of globalization. Rodrigues issues a cautionary note as well If we are to succeed in globalizing our values, we must promote to our members not ju st our quality goods and services, but the principles o f cooperation as well There are few people who can encapsulate the power and potential of cooperation as Roberto Rodrigues has in The Second Wave. This book should be required reading not ju st for cooperators, but also for any one who fears the consequences of globalization. There is an answer - the globalization of cooperative values and principles.