Question

What is the key feature of co-operatives in Denmark regarding member participation?

• A. One member, one vote regardless of share size
• B. Members vote based on the number of shares they own.
• C. Management is appointed by the government.
• D. Only founding members have voting rights.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. One member, one vote regardless of share size

DENMARK

• The Dairy Farm & Co-operative Hub of Europe

Basic Facts

• Capital: Copenhagen

• Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)

Why is Denmark World-Renowned?

• Known as the “Dairy Farm of Europe”

• Famous for dairying and agricultural co-operation

• No formal Co-operative legislation – the movement grew voluntarily

• Birthplace & promoter of Single Purpose Societies

Called “Co-operative Denmark” due to widespread success in:

• Agriculture

• Dairying

• Consumer goods

• Bacon, Eggs

• Insurance

• Seen as the “Torchbearer of the Co-operative Movement” globally Because of the success of cooperatives in agriculture, dairying, consumer, bacon, egg, insurance etc. the country is also known as cooperative Denmark.

• Co-operatives in Denmark grew as a voluntary movement

Education & Co-operative Awareness:

• Folk High School

• Founded by N.F.S. Grundtvig

• Established as early as 1814 with compulsory education

Aimed at teaching:

• Simple living

• Theory and practice of co-operation

• Academic and life skills

Played a vital role in shaping the co-operative mindset

Three-tiered Schooling System:

• Folk High Schools – Philosophy & co-operative values

• Rural Schools – Household economy, especially for women

• Agricultural Schools – Technical + general education → Referred to as “hot beds” of the co-operative movement