Course Content
1. The General Assembly – The Foundation of the Association
The General Assembly is the association’s highest authority and the forum where members make decisions regarding finances, elections, and the future of the organization.
Topics covered:
- The role and responsibilities of the General Assembly
- The relationship between the board and the members
- Decision-making processes and member involvement
2. Types of General Assemblies
Associations typically work with several types of General Assemblies.
Focus areas:
- Constituent (Founding) General Assembly
- Annual General Assembly
- Extraordinary General Assembly
3. Planning and Implementation
A well-organized General Assembly creates confidence and ensures high-quality decision-making.
We review:
- Notice of meeting and agenda preparation
- Roles and responsibilities (chairperson, minute-taker, vote counters)
- Meeting procedures and decision-making processes
4. Bylaws – The Rules of the Association
The bylaws are the common rules adopted by the members to govern the association.
Themes:
- Structure and content of bylaws
- Bylaws as an agreement between members
- When and how bylaws can be amended
5. Legal Requirements and Minimum Content
To operate effectively and qualify for grants, an association’s bylaws must meet certain requirements.
Topics covered:
- Purpose, membership, and democratic principles
- Board structure and elections
- Financial year, auditing, and dissolution
6. Digital General Assemblies
More and more associations are using digital solutions to increase participation.
Content:
- Rules for digital and hybrid General Assemblies
- Bylaw requirements for online meetings
- Benefits of digital participation and voting
7. Common Challenges and Practical Cases
We work with real-life situations from association life.
Examples:
- Voting rights and membership issues
- Lack of candidates for the board
- Extraordinary situations and by-elections
- Votes of no confidence in the board
Learning Outcomes
After completing the course, your board will:
- Have updated and well-developed bylaws
- Be able to plan and conduct a professional General Assembly
- Create greater transparency and democracy within the association
- Be better equipped to handle challenges and governance-related questions
Course Format
The programme can be tailored to your association and delivered as:
- Workshops
- Thematic modules
- Comprehensive training programmes
The course focuses on practical examples, dialogue, and hands-on tools that can be applied directly in your board work.
