egyesulet

An egyesület, in Hungarian law, is a voluntary association of persons formed for a common, non-profit purpose. It is a legal entity that operates to pursue shared interests such as culture, education, charity, sports, or advocacy. An egyesület is typically founded by a set of members who agree to a founding document and a statute (alapszabály) that governs its operation.

Formation and governance are based on the founding act and the alapszabály. The supreme decision-making body is usually the general meeting (közgyűlés), while day-to-day management is handled by an elected body such as the board or presidency (elnökség). The statutes specify membership rules, admission and resignation, voting rights, officers, and procedures for elections, meetings, and amendments to the statute. An egyesület operates in its own name and can own property, enter into contracts, sue and be sued as a legal person.

Activities and finances are oriented toward the achievement of its stated non-profit goals. An egyesület may carry out cultural, educational, charitable, scientific, or recreational activities and may generate income from membership fees, donations, and grants. Profits must be used to further the association’s objectives rather than distributed to members. Depending on its activities and compliance with applicable law, an egyesület may apply for public or private funding and may be subject to reporting or supervisory requirements.

Dissolution occurs by decision of the general meeting or by court order. Upon dissolution, the association is liquidated and its remaining assets are allocated to another non-profit organization with similar purposes or to a public institution, in accordance with statutory provisions.

In a broader sense, egyesülete are one of several forms of civil organizations found in many jurisdictions, each with its own rules for creation, governance, and accountability.