Women’s Cooperatives and Silvopastoralism in the Mediterranean: A Strategic Approach to Service Provision in Lebanon and Turkey

Cooperatives play a significant role within organizational models by providing essential services such as technical support, advocacy, information, knowledge, and guidance, which contribute to the production of high-quality animal products in a safe, efficient, and responsible manner. Furthermore, cooperatives aim to enhance the livelihoods of marginalized populations and address consumer needs. In this context, a study focusing on the status of women’s cooperatives in the Eastern Mediterranean offers valuable insights into women’s participation in economic and social life, as well as their challenges and expectations. This research aims to evaluate the status, perspectives, participation, activities, and expectations of women’s cooperatives in Lebanon and Turkey. The findings indicate that 90% of respondents in Lebanon and 45.5% in Turkey expressed satisfaction with their respective cooperatives. Additionally, 90% of Lebanese respondents and 59.1% of Turkish respondents would recommend that women establish their own cooperatives. The most common motivation for forming cooperatives in both countries was the belief that women are stronger when they collaborate. Furthermore, 75% of respondents in Lebanon and 45.4% in Turkey believe that cooperatives are suitable for conducting business, while those who disagreed emphasized the need for specialized traders to address specific business requirements. Respondents who expressed dissatisfaction with cooperative collaboration often mentioned difficulties in making joint decisions and challenges in group cohesion. These findings underline the importance of cooperatives in enhancing women’s roles in economic activities and the challenges they face in both Lebanon and Turkey. Despite these challenges, women’s cooperatives continue to be perceived as a valuable means of empowerment and a key strategy for fostering collaboration and economic growth.