Glossary
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Elections
The election of the executive bodies, above all the committee, is a central item in the general meeting. The elections should be well prepared: Should the future members of the committee be elected individually or should they be elected together as a group? Should they individually present their plans for the association’s future or is the entire committee with a joint programme for the upcoming year up for election? Are they elected for individual functions or can the committee itself decide on the division of responsibilities? Are the candidates undisputed or can other persons be nominated by members?
Question
At the general meeting, I am to be confirmed as chairperson as well as another four committee members in their respective roles. In addition, a named new committee member is to be elected. The election is expected to be uncontested. How can this election be conducted in the most efficient and correct manner?
Answer
There are no legal provisions with respect to exactly how elections are to be conducted. Of course, any regulations laid down in the articles of association must be observed and it must be clear who is elected and who is not.
The following practices have proven successful:
- It is advantageous to first confirm the members of the committee individually or as a whole (including the chairperson) and then to confirm the chairperson individually in his or her office.
- It makes sense to have a new member elected individually. Individual elections give more weight to the person in question. If there is no other nomination, however, an individual new member can also be elected together with the remaining members.
- During the election of the chairperson, the deputy temporarily assumes the position of chair. Responsibility for the remaining elections is assumed by the elected chairperson.
