Principle of collegiality

Similar to the Federal Council, the principle of collegiality applies to the association’s committee, too. It refers to the collective responsibility of committee members to work towards the interests of the association and to support each other. It consists of collegial and loyal interaction among the members of the committee and respect for the contribution of each committee member, as well as necessary factual criticism and the thorough discussion of subject matters. When communicating the resolutions of the committee, the individual committee members should support majority decisions loyally, even if they voted against those decisions. The principle of collegiality is a prerequisite for joint efforts and shared responsibility of the association.

Question

Who is king/queen of the association?

Answer

There is neither a king nor a queen in the association. The committee as an overall body assumes responsibility for the association's business. It has the right and the obligation to take care of the association's affairs and to represent it externally. That's what the law says.

Unless the articles of association provide more specific requirements, the committee can organise itself and the distribution of its tasks as it sees fit. It can, for example, introduce a departmental system. However, it is always true that the committee is a collegial body that assumes joint liability for the association. It must be ensured that all committee members can have their say. The chairperson cannot issue commands alone.

Principle of collegiality

King/queen or a collegial body?

Question

Answer