Obstacles for agricultural cooperatives in Russia: The competencies of experts

The Russian government wants to stimulate the development of cooperatives among private farmers. This study evaluates the competencies of the experts who are to guide potential members. The research team conducted a survey among these experts, measuring three theoretically derived dimensions of competencies: knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The results reveal that the experts’ competencies were poor. The respondents overestimated their competencies. Other factors as well indicate that the prospects for agricultural cooperatives are poor in Russia. The large agribusiness firms have a strong market position and much political power. The legal framework for cooperatives is dysfunctional.