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Cooperatives as Tools for Poverty Alleviation and Welfare Enhancement: A Case Study of Developing Countries

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  • Muhammad Ameer Fakhri

    (Faculty of Economics and Management, University Kebangsaan Malaysia)

  • Doris Padmini Selvaratnam

    (Faculty of Economics and Management, University Kebangsaan Malaysia)

Abstract

There are many approaches to minimise poverty in developing countries, namely self-help groups and cooperatives. This study investigates the role of cooperatives in alleviating poverty and enhancing welfare in developing countries, through the dual lens of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) and Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach (CA). Using an entirely qualitative approach grounded in secondary data, the paper synthesises peer-reviewed studies and selected case studies from Iran, Brazil, and India. The findings suggest that cooperatives enhance fundamental freedoms by expanding access to services, promoting inclusive economic opportunities, and fostering community empowerment. While cooperatives are effective instruments of poverty alleviation, their impact is contingent upon autonomy, human capital, and favourable policies by the government.

Suggested Citation

  • Muhammad Ameer Fakhri & Doris Padmini Selvaratnam, 2025. "Cooperatives as Tools for Poverty Alleviation and Welfare Enhancement: A Case Study of Developing Countries," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(6), pages 3139-3154, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-6:p:3139-3154
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Erika Ribašauskienė & Diana Šumylė & Artiom Volkov & Tomas Baležentis & Dalia Streimikiene & Mangirdas Morkunas, 2019. "Evaluating Public Policy Support for Agricultural Cooperatives," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(14), pages 1-15, July.
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