äänestysvaltuutettujen

Äänestysvaltuutettujen are individuals appointed to cast votes on behalf of others in specific organizational or institutional contexts. This concept is particularly relevant in the Finnish legal and corporate landscape. In the context of limited liability companies (osakeyhtiöt), shareholders who do not wish to attend a general meeting in person can appoint a voting representative. This representative, the äänestysvaltuutettu, acts with the proxy authority granted by the shareholder to vote on their behalf on matters brought before the meeting.

The appointment of an äänestysvaltuutettu is typically formalized through a power of attorney. This document outlines the scope of the representative's authority, including which meetings they can attend and how they are empowered to vote. The specific rules and requirements for appointing and utilizing äänestysvaltuutettujen can vary depending on the bylaws of the organization and relevant company law. This mechanism ensures that all shareholders' voting rights can be exercised even if they are unable to be physically present. The primary role is to ensure the shareholder's intentions are represented accurately during the decision-making process.