PRESS RELEASE
December 10, 2024
COOP CHAMBER COMMEMORATES THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS (1948)
The Cooperative Movement in the Philippines joins the global initiative to advocate for the “inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family, which serve as the foundation for freedom, justice, and peace in the world.”
The Cooperative Principles and Values convey a deep and significant understanding of the value of human life. They highlight the importance of recognizing each individual’s unique contributions and dignity, emphasizing that every person deserves respect and consideration within the cooperative and their community.
In cooperatives, we uphold the vital right to freedom of opinion and expression. This includes the right to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and share information and ideas through any medium, transcending boundaries. However, we must assert this right robustly, especially when engaging with the State on policies affecting our cooperatives. This right inherently encompasses the freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
As stated in the declaration, “No one may be compelled to belong to an association.β This principle reinforces our commitment to open and voluntary membership within our sector. Therefore, cooperatives must speak out against any State imposition forcing them into unwanted organizations for mere compliance. Such actions directly violate the core principles of cooperation and the UN declaration and cannot be ignored.
The cooperatives believe that democratic practices within their structure best exemplify the value for the voice and decisions of the majority. We are an institution that promotes empowerment not only for our members but also for the community in which we operate.
We also have the responsibility to actively participate in the affairs of the state. This includes the following rights:
1. Everyone has the right to participate in the government of their country, either directly or through freely chosen representatives.
2. Everyone has the right to equal access to public service in their country.
3. The authority of the government is based on the will of the people; this will should be expressed through periodic and genuine elections held by universal and equal suffrage, conducted by secret ballot or equivalent free voting procedures.
With the 2025 Midterm Elections approaching, we must amplify our voices, and choices, to effectively engage in the upcoming electoral process.
Electoral engagement is not merely about elections; it is fundamentally about governance. Cooperatives must hold governments accountable to serve the interests of the citizenry, irrespective of political affiliations.
It is essential that we make our cooperative vote count in this electionβas well as in all future electoral exercises.
The Coop Chamber and cooperatives firmly believe that with our unity and commitment to promoting the cooperative agenda, executive and legislative initiatives can be advocated, lobbied for, and ultimately passed into law. We will seek legislative champions in Congress to further these goals.
Finally, “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for their health and well-being, including access to food, clothing, housing, medical care, and necessary social services. They also have the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age, or any other lack of livelihood due to circumstances beyond their control.”
Cooperatives play a crucial role in protecting member rights through various programs and services. Their main goal is to empower individuals to overcome poverty and lead fulfilling, productive lives by fostering collaboration and providing essential resources.
As we celebrate the 76th anniversary of International Human Rights Day, it is important to recognize that cooperatives serve as instruments of social justice, equity, and economic development. In our efforts to create a better world, we must unite as a movement to promote human rights, as well as the respect and recognition of these rights. We continue to stand in solidarity with all people, especially those who are marginalized.
Contact Person:
Edwin A. Bustillos
Executive Director
Mobile No. 09178017309
Email: edwin.bustillos1010@gmail.com
Facebook: COOP CHAMBER
