in the service of associations

Disorder at the general meeting

At a general meeting, there may be disturbances, for example, if someone does not stick to the agenda, interrupts others while speaking or takes up too much speaking time. The chairperson of the meeting is entitled to call such persons to order. If there are interminable interventions, a procedural motion to restrict the speaking time or to close the list of speakers may be helpful. If, in spite of an admonition, someone does not adhere to the assembly rules and this leads to a considerable disturbance, this person can be excluded from the meeting. If the debate becomes tumultuous because of very different or conflictual points of view, the chairperson can request an interruption to discuss the further procedure in a calmer setting with the other members of the committee or, if need be, with a representative from each of the fractious groups. If it is not possible to continue the meeting, it can be cancelled and resumed at another time.