THE COOPERATIVE MOVEMENT IN ROMANIA

The cooperative movement in Romania represented a solution for improving the economic and social conditions of the population, especially in rural areas. This paper tracks the evolution of this movement from the 19th century to the present, analyzing the legislative framework, types of cooperatives, and their impact on rural and urban development. The aim of the paper is to briefly present a historical overview regarding the cooperative movement in Romania. The research methodology is based on a qualitative scientific method. A comprehensive and systematic literature review was carried on by the author. On this line, representative studies and historical analyses are discussed for a better understanding of this phenomenon. In recent years, Romanian cooperatives have faced numerous contemporary challenges such as economic globalization, digitalization, and regulatory changes. The integration of digital technologies into cooperative structures has become essential, enabling better market reach, improved management efficiencies, and enhanced member engagement. The paper demonstrates that the cooperative movement in Romania has evolved significantly, continually adapting its structures and strategies to meet various economic and social needs.