Revista JRTMED vol. 11 nr. 2(22) 2024-7-21
COOPERATIVE ECOSYSTEM – AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH FOR COOPERATIVES DEVELOPMENT AND AN EFFICIENT INSTRUMENT FOR POLICYMAKERS
Larisa ȘAVGA, Prof., PhD
Trade Cooperative University of Moldova
“Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania,
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ORCİD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9691-7475
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59642/JRTMED.2.2024.01
Universal Decimal Classification: 334.73(478)
JEL Classification: M2, O21, L26
Abstract
Cooperatives represent a significant segment of the economic system due to their economic and social impact. Boosting cooperative development and enhancing their contribution to socio-economic progress require innovative approaches in organization, operation, and policymaking. While recent actions in this area have positively influenced the evolution of cooperatives, their full potential and ability to address societal challenges remain underutilized. One reason for this is the lack of a systematic approach to cooperative development. Existing strategies, which focus solely on specific elements of the cooperative system or isolated actions, have shown limited effectiveness.
In this context, a new vision for cooperative development is required—one that embraces a systemic and innovative approach. A potential solution lies in implementing the cooperative ecosystem concept, which emphasizes collaboration among all stakeholders and fosters a transformative shift in attitudes toward cooperatives. This concept can serve as a critical framework for shaping development policies and accelerating the evolution of cooperatives.
This research establishes the foundation for the concept of the cooperative ecosystem. The Strategy for the Development of Consumer Cooperatives in the Republic of Moldova for the period 2025–2030 was designed based on this approach. It was approved at the 18th Congress of the Cooperative System on September 12, 2024, and is currently being implemented. The outcomes of its implementation will provide an opportunity to evaluate the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the proposed concept.
Keywords: cooperatives, cooperative ecosystem, development strategies, innovative and sustainable development
