These Credit Union operating principles are founded in the philosphy of cooperation and mutual self-help. We recognize the varied practics in the implemention of credit union philosophy around the world. At the heart of these principles however is the concept of human development and the brotherhood of man expressed through people working together to achieve a better life for themselves and their community Approved 24 August.1984 by WOCCU Membership Council Open and Voluntary Membership Membership in a credit union is voluntary and open to all within the accepted common bond of association that can make use of its services and are willing to accept the corresponding responsibilities. Democratic Control Credit Union members enjoy equal rights to vote (one member, one vote) and participate in decisions affecting the credit union, without regard to the amount of savings or deposits or the volume of business. Voting in credit union support or associations may be proportional or representational, in keeping with democratic principles. The credit union is autonomous, within the framework of law and regulation, recognizing the credit union as a cooperative enterprise serving and controlled by its members. Credit union elected officers are voluntary in nature and incumbents should not receive a salary. However, credit unions may reimburse legitimate expenses incurred by elected officials. Non-Discrimination Credit unions are non-discriminatory in relation to race, nationality, sex, religion and politics. Service to Members Credit union services are directed to improve the economic and social well-being of all members. Distribution to Members To encourage thrift through savings and thus to provide loans and other services, a fair rate of interest is paid on savings and deposits, within the capability of the credit union. The surplus arising out of the operations of the credit union after ensuring appropriate reserve levels, and after payment of limited dividends on permanent equity capital where it exists, belongs to and benefits all members with no member or group of members benefiting to the detriment of others. The surplus may be distributed among members in proportion to their transactions with the credit union either as interest or patronage refunds, or as directed to improved or additional services required by members. Building Financial Stability A prime concern of the credit union is to build the financial strength, including adequate reserves and internal controls that will ensure continued service to membership. On-Going Education Credit unions actively promote the education of their members, officers, and employees, along with the public in general, in the economic social democratic and mutual self-help principles of credit unions. The promotion of thrift and the wise use of credit as well as education on the rights and responsibilities of members are essential to the dual social and economic character of credit unions serving member needs. Cooperation Among Cooperatives In keeping with their philosophy and the pooling practices of cooperatives, credit unions within their capability actively cooperate with other credit unions, cooperatives and their associations at local, national, and international levels in order to best serve the interests of their members and their communities. Social Responsibility Continuing the ideals and beliefs of cooperative pioneers, credit unions seek to bring about human and social development. Their vision of social justice extends both to the individual members and to the larger community in which they work and reside. The credit union ideal is to extend service to all who need and can use it. Every person is either a member or a potential member and appropriately part of the credit union sphere of interest and concern. Decisions should be taken with full regard for the interest of the broader community within which the credit union and its members reside.