Hauptzwecke

Hauptzwecke is a German term used to describe the principal aims or main purposes of an organization, project, contract, or legal entity. The plural Hauptzwecke is used when multiple central objectives are identified.

Etymology and meaning: The word combines Haupt, meaning main or principal, with Zweck, meaning purpose or objective. Together, Hauptzweck denotes the core aim, while Hauptzwecke refers to several core aims that a body intends to pursue.

Usage in law and governance: In statutes, foundation charters, association bylaws, and corporate governance documents, Hauptzwecke designate the essential goals of the entity. They are often contrasted with Nebenzwecke (ancillary or secondary purposes), which may be pursued in addition to the Hauptzwecke. In nonprofit and foundation law, the specification of Hauptzwecke is important for defining the scope of Tätigkeiten (activities) and for considerations of tax status and compliance.

Examples: In a charity’s statutes, a sentence such as “Die Hauptzwecke der Stiftung sind die Förderung von Wissenschaft und Bildung” states the central aims. A corporate charter might read, “Der Verein verfolgt als Hauptzwecke die Förderung des regionalen Handwerks und der Kultur.” Nebenzwecke would be listed separately and are not the primary basis for the entity’s activities.

Context and variations: Outside legal texts, the term is used in business plans, grant proposals, and project documents to summarize the main goals. The exact formulation can differ by jurisdiction and organization type, but the concept remains a clear statement of the primary aims to guide actions and governance.

Siehe auch: Zweck, Nebenzweck, Zweckbindung.