COOPERATION ATTITUDES OF FARMERS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA IN THE PROCESS OF RDP GRANT APPLICATION

Abstract

The dispersion of information at local level, social capital and cooperation between farmers are very important aspects for institutional growth and development. With the recognized importance of cooperative action and the benefits of the rural development programs for the rural areas and population in transition countries, there is a need for deeper insight into the factors that affect the (dis)incentives for cooperation among the farmers in Macedonia. The study was designed as an exploratory research by employing descriptive statistical analysis and hypotheses testing in order to open potential issues for further research. The results indicate that farmers recognize the benefits of cooperatives and cooperation. The underdeveloped social capital and lack of trust and information are the main factors that influence the cooperation attitudes of farmers in the country.