FOUNDATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS LAW

At least seven natural or legal persons. The association acquires legal personality as soon as the founders prepare the statute and submit the formation notice to the provincial directorate of civil society relations; the administration then reviews the statute for compliance with the law.

A foundation is established by permanently dedicating assets to a specific purpose, through an official deed executed before a notary or by will. It acquires legal personality upon the registration decision of the court of its seat and becomes subject to supervision by the General Directorate of Foundations.

A member who attended and voted against the resolution, or who was wrongly prevented from voting, may ask the court to annul a resolution that breaches the law or the statute. The action must be filed within one month of learning of the resolution and in any event within three months of its date.

Yes. Failing to make statutory notifications, failing to keep the books properly or using the association’s assets for purposes other than its objects can result in administrative fines and civil and, in some cases, criminal liability for the managers.

As a rule, associations and foundations may collect donations from non-members only with a permit from the local governor under the Fundraising Law. Collecting donations without a permit can lead to administrative and criminal sanctions.

An association is dissolved either by a resolution of the general assembly adopted by a qualified majority or, in the cases listed in the law, by court decision. After dissolution, its assets are transferred to the recipient named in the statute and the liquidation is completed.