Evolution of Consumer-managed Water Cooperatives in Finland, with Implications for Developing Countries

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study analyses the long-term evolution of consumer-managed. water supply cooperatives in Finland, a country that used to be somewhat backward, but which is today one of the most developed countries in the world. Much of the knowledge gained from that evolution should be applicable to the developing world. Yet, one must be careful not to try to apply the Finnish model directly to developing countries that have different cultural backgrounds, government constitutions, and economic and social obligations. The Finnish experience shows that development is based on consumers' initiative. Each party should assume the duties that exist. Consumers should pay or otherwise cover the main part of the costs. The government should concentrate on policy issues, promotion, and guidance, Associations should have management responsibility, where the role of the key person, the “champion”/“prime-mover” is decisive, The private sector could supply many of the external services. External support agencies and dev...