asociace

Asociace, in general, is a term used for a group of people who come together to pursue a shared purpose or interest. They are typically voluntary, nonprofit organizations that operate to advance common goals such as culture, education, science, charity, or civic engagement. An association is usually formed through a written charter or statutes and functions through cooperation among its members rather than through private ownership or profit distribution.

In the Czech legal context, asociace commonly take the forms of občanské sdružení or zapsaný spolek. Both forms can obtain legal personality upon registration and may sue or be sued, own property, and enter into contracts in their own name. They are governed by a board or council and by the decisions of the members at general meetings, with the statutes defining the purpose, membership rules, governance, and methods for amendments.

Funding for associations typically comes from membership fees, donations, grants, sponsorships, and activities related to their objectives. They are required to keep financial records and to report to authorities as stipulated by law. Some associations may qualify for tax exemptions or public-benefit status, depending on national rules and the nature of their activities. Profits, if any, must be reinvested in the association’s purposes and not distributed to members.

Compared with other non-profit forms, associations differ from foundations, which are generally asset-based and less member-driven, and from commercial entities, which aim to generate profits for owners. Associations play a central role in civil society, supporting professional bodies, cultural and sporting groups, advocacy networks, and service providers for members and the wider public.