The modern world is being dragged into both economic and social destruction under the grip of capitalism. Capitalism not only fuels competition among individuals but also continues to exploit humans and nature by commodifying every aspect of life. However, Cooperativa Integral Catalana (CIC), which emerged as a tool of resistance against this hegemonic structure, stands out as an anarchist alternative. This organization seeks to prove that social and economic freedom is possible outside of capitalism.
The Birth and Principles of CIC
The CIC was founded in 2010 in response to the social devastation caused by the economic crisis in Spain. The global financial crisis that erupted in 2008 deeply affected Catalonia, leading to widespread unemployment and poverty, making the unsustainability of the capitalist system more apparent. As a result of the crisis, social resistance movements and self-management initiatives began to proliferate. In this historical context, CIC was established as a cooperative based on anarchist principles, offering an alternative to the economic and social relations imposed by capitalism and the state.
Before becoming one of the founders of the Catalan Integral Cooperative (CIC), Eric Duran gained recognition for his “bank action” in 2008. In this action, he defrauded 39 banks in Spain of approximately €500,000, distributing this money to various activist movements and social causes.
The establishment of the CIC was made possible by the coming together of activists, anarchists, and ecologists in search of an alternative model of living and economic organization. Enric Duran, one of the leading figures of the movement, played a significant role during this process. Duran became known for investing the money he received from Spanish banks by not repaying the loans, channeling it into anti-capitalist projects. This bold action sparked the founding of the CIC and demonstrated that economic resistance could be sustained not only individually but collectively.
CIC was designed as a decentralized, horizontally organized structure based on direct democracy. The cooperative’s primary goal was to create an independent economic system that could meet the community’s needs through solidarity. Participants created a model that prioritized social and ecological sustainability against the exclusionary and individualistic nature of capitalism, operating in areas such as food production, housing, education, healthcare, and energy. One of the most striking features of the CIC is its use of its local currency, “eco.” This created an alternative exchange system outside of the capitalist market economy, enabling members to engage in direct and fair trade with each other.
The Influence of the Anarchist Tradition in Catalonia
Catalonia, where the CIC is rooted, has a historically strong anarchist legacy. Since the 19th century, Catalonia has been a center for labor movements, collective resistances, and self-management practices. During the Spanish Civil War in 1936, Catalonia was the region where anarchist communes and cooperatives were most prevalent. This historical background provided the social and political foundation necessary for the establishment of the CIC. By reviving this anarchist tradition, CIC presented a self-managed, collective economic model against capitalist exploitation.
CIC not only responded to economic crises but also centered its efforts on the pursuit of social justice and equality. Standing against the classist, sexist, and racist divisions created by capitalism, the CIC aimed to create a space where all forms of discrimination and social hierarchies were abolished. This cooperative is not just a model of production and consumption; it is also a network of free and equal social relationships.
CIC’s Growth and Challenges
Since its founding, CIC has rapidly grown, expanding both its participant base and areas of activity. However, this growth process also brought organizational challenges. As the structure based on horizontal organization and direct democracy grew, it faced the risks of becoming more complex and bureaucratic. In a non-centralized structure, making collective decisions sometimes led to bottlenecks in the decision-making process. Additionally, the cooperative’s attempts to remain outside the capitalist system were occasionally weakened due to necessary interactions with the outside world.
Enric Duran’s need to go into exile marked a significant turning point for the CIC. In 2013, Duran left Catalonia to avoid facing charges, becoming the most recognizable face and symbolic leader of the cooperative. His absence sparked discussions about how decision-making processes would continue. However, CIC managed to maintain its commitment to anarchist principles by continuing collective solidarity and self-management practices in Duran’s absence.
Ecological Sustainability and Local Production
One of the fundamental principles of the CIC is ecological sustainability. The cooperative developed an ecological principles-based model of production and living, providing an alternative to the destructive impacts of capitalism on nature and people. By utilizing ecological farming methods in food production, it stood against the industrial agriculture and excessive consumption of the capitalist system. CIC members managed to create a sustainable living space by conserving local resources and engaging in eco-friendly production.
CIC not only advocates for an economic model but also for a lifestyle that respects the environment. By utilizing renewable energy sources, practicing ecological agriculture, and focusing on local production, cooperative members succeeded in leading lives that transcend capitalist consumption habits. This approach ensured not only the preservation of ecological balance but also the community’s ability to meet its needs with its resources.
Social Transformation and Alternative Economic Model
CIC is not merely a structure aimed at meeting individual and social needs; it is also a tool for resistance against capitalism and a model for social transformation. The cooperative presents an economic model based on collective production and sharing against the individualistic and competitive nature of capitalism. This model aims to eliminate economic inequalities and strengthen solidarity. By establishing an economic system based on direct democracy and horizontal organization outside of the capitalist market economy, it promotes the active participation of individuals not only as consumers but also as producers and decision-makers.
CIC has taken significant steps toward increasing social consciousness and participation. Cooperative members have the power to shape their lives and communities by directly participating in decision-making processes. This participatory democracy model facilitates the collective resolution of social issues and encourages individuals to contribute actively to society.
CIC’s Contribution to Social Transformation
Cooperativa Integral Catalana is not just an economic cooperative but an anarchist, ecological, and egalitarian model of living against capitalism. By combining social solidarity, ecological sustainability, and collective economics, CIC embodies a sustainable and just alternative to the capitalist system. This cooperative has the potential to revive the strong anarchist tradition in Catalonia while serving as an inspiration for future similar communities.