What is a quorum?

A quorum is defined as the minimum number of members required for a legal meeting. This concept is essential in both organizational and parliamentary procedures, as it ensures that enough members are present to make decisions on behalf of the group. Without a quorum, any decisions made may be deemed invalid because not enough representatives are present to reflect the will of the organization as a whole.

The existence of a quorum promotes engagement and participation, as it encourages members to attend meetings to ensure that decisions can be made. If the number of attendees is below this minimum threshold, the meeting may need to be rescheduled or postponed until sufficient members are available, thus safeguarding the integrity of the decision-making process. This requirement protects against decisions being made by a very small, potentially unrepresentative group.

Understanding the importance of a quorum helps members recognize the role each individual plays in organizational participation and accountability.