Algemene vergadering

The general meeting, often referred to as the general meeting of shareholders in a BV or NV, constitutes the highest governing body of the legal entity. It is the forum in which the owners convene to exercise their voting rights on matters such as the appointment of directors, the approval of the annual accounts and amendments to the articles of association.

This meeting is crucial because it safeguards democratic control and enables shareholders to influence the company’s policy. In practice, it is typically held once a year, but may also be convened at the request of shareholders or the board.

In legal proceedings, the validity of resolutions passed at the general meeting may be contested, for instance where there are irregularities in the convening notice or the voting procedure.