Organisation of the association

The law and the articles of association govern the internal organisation of the association. The key bodies are the board and the general meeting. Some associations also have a supervisory board.

Board

The board is appointed by the general meeting. The board members then elect a chair, secretary and treasurer from among themselves, unless the articles of association prescribe a different arrangement. The board is tasked with managing the association and is authorised to represent it externally. This authority to represent the association is often limited, for example by requiring two signatures or by setting restrictions for legal acts of a certain nature or above a certain value.

General meeting

The general meeting consists of the members, each of whom has one vote. The general meeting is an important body and appoints the board. The law requires the board to convene a general meeting of members within six months of the end of the financial year and at least once per year. This is the occasion for members to ask questions and for the board to report to the membership.

Membership and members

An association must have at least two members. Members are fundamental to the existence of an association. The law says little about the content of membership (i.e. the rights and obligations attached to it). This can be problematic, as associations vary greatly. Most articles of association provide more detailed criteria regarding membership eligibility and the associated rights and obligations. Admission as a member occurs by resolution of the board.

An association cannot compel members to remain. A member may always terminate their membership. Membership also ends upon the death of the member, unless the articles allow for inheritance of membership rights.