Social Capital in Coffee Organizations in Two Regions in the Central Area of Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the level of social capital in two coffee organizations in the central area of Veracruz, Mexico to determine the extent to which the group activities implemented contribute to overcoming the crisis in this sector. A total of 41 questionnaires were applied to members and two semi-structured interviews were conducted with the organization leaders. Although social capital exists in both organizations, it does not appear to be at the same level. The organization in the Coatepec region has a low degree of social capital as a result of low levels of trust, reciprocity, cooperation and participation, reflected in weak cohesion as well as insubstantial networks and alliances. The organization in the Huatusco region has a high degree of social capital, expressed in greater levels of trust, solidarity, cooperation, participation and consolidated networks, which increase its capacity to implement collective activities for the benefit of its members. The concept of social capital is useful for understanding the role of coffee organizations in undertaking group activities. This paper concludes that a high level of the aspects comprising social capital is necessary but not enough to successfully tackle the coffee crisis.