Resignation from the association
Where members fail to pay their membership contribution, this does not automatically lead to the resignation or termination of the membership. A notice of termination or a letter of resignation or corresponding statutory actions are required.
Question
An association member who has been awarded an honorary membership would like to leave the association as they have other interests. Upon handing over her position, my predecessor told me that an honorary member cannot leave the association. Is this true?
Answer
A member can always leave an association, irrespective of the type of membership. The right to withdraw from the association is mandatory and is a personal right. Under Article 70(2) of the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB), the notice period is half a year. This period can be shortened in the articles of association, but cannot be extended. No reasons have to be provided for leaving the association in compliance with the notice period. You therefore have to or may let your honorary member leave without issue.
The opinion of your predecessor is probably based on the fact that in granting an honorary membership the desired intention is to provide recognition for life.
