EN
This paper presents role and position of Cooperative banks in Poland and European Union Countries. In presented countries works two type of structure. First double stage structure with local banks affiliated with one domestic bank, which function in Spain, Netherlands and Denmark. Another one is three stage structure with local banks, regional banks and domestic banks. Currently most association reduce regional banks which helps lowered cost. They played very important role in development of rural areas in many countries especially in Spain, Austria and Germany. Market share in total assets of banking sector was on the level above 30%.