Association Board Structures

National Boards vary considerably depending on the size of the National Association in question.

Executive Roles

National President

National International Relations Officer

National

 

Regional or Club Representatives

Areas, Districts, Regions and Zones

In Associations without separate areas, the National Board would have representatives from the indivual Tables.

Board Assistants

 

 

Unique Roles

 

Areas, Districts, Regions and Zones

In the context of Round Table Associations, the terms Area, District, and Region are used to organize Tables geographically and administratively within national and international structures. However, their exact meanings and usage can vary slightly between associations and contexts, with the terms sometimes used interchangeably.

Areas can be a sub-national grouping of Tables within larger associations. This helps decentralize governance while also facilitating close cooperation, local events, and administration.

These Areas may correspond to administrative or geographical boundaries.

Administration

In some cases, Areas have their own AGMs, Councils, and Events, functioning like mini-associations.

In Round Table Southern Africa and Round Table India, Areas are significant units with their own leadership (Area Chairman, Area Exec).

These Aera or District chairmen would usually form part of the National Board, guiding it with specific attention to the Tables they administer.

Associations with regions within their Associations

The following Associations have regions within their Associations.


 

RTI Annual General Meeting

Round Table International AGMs are typically part of the RTI World Meeting (RTI WM) and are organized annually.

The RTI AGM (Annual General Meeting) is one of the most important gatherings within Round Table International. It serves three main purposes:

1. Governance and Decision-Making: The AGM is the formal setting where the RTI Council meets to:

    • Receive and review reports from the RTI Board.
    • Vote on key motions and proposed amendments to the RTI Rulebook or policies.
    • Elect officers for the coming year.
    • Review and approve audited financial statements and the annual budget.

2. Fellowship and Networking: The AGM is also a major social and cultural event where Tablers from across the world gather to celebrate the spirit of Round Table, enjoy fellowship, and experience the hospitality of the host association.

3. Transition and Planning: It marks the formal handover between outgoing and incoming RTI officers. The incoming President and Board present their plans and goals for the next term.


More information:


RTI Council Votes


During particular items on the agenda of the RTI AGM or RTI HYM, the RTI Councillors would need to vote on behalf of their respective Associations. Votes are anonymous and carried out with digital solutions.

Eligibility to Vote

Only full member Associations that are fully paid up at the start of the meeting may vote on behalf of their Associations.

The RTI Board does not have the right to vote. In the case of a tied vote, the RTI President may cast a tiebreaker vote.

Types of Votes

There are two types of votes that take place during RTI Council votes during AGMs and HYMs.

Simple Majority Vote: Each full member Association gets 1 vote each. If the positive result is 50%+1 of votes cast, it is approved.

Poll Vote: In a poll vote, each Association gets the same number of votes as the number of members it has. If the positive result is 50%+1 of votes cast, it is approved.

This solution strikes the best balance of representation per each association, and their respective number of members.

Votable Orders

Elections for RTI Board: A simple majority vote is required until a candidate receives 50%+1 of the vote.

Future RTI Events: Future RTI World Meetings and RTI Half Year Meetings are voted for two years in advance by means of a simple majority vote.

Motions: A simple majority vote is required for the motion to be put to the floor. It is then approved or otherwise following a poll vote.


 

Round Table International, asbl

“Round Table International, asbl” is the name of the legal entity behind the operations of RTI.


Under Luxembourg law, an Association Sans But Lucratif (ASBL) is a legally recognized non-profit entity (governed by the Law of 21 April 1928), requiring at least three founding members and a structured governance system, including a General Assembly (RTI AGM) and Board of Directors (RTI Boards). It ensures transparency, limited liability, and eligibility for public funding while prohibiting profit distribution. By obtaining ASBL status, Round Table International (RTI) reinforced its legal structure, accountability, and commitment to its global community, aligning with its mission of professionalizing its brand and expanding its outreach.

With the formation of the asbl, RTI’s address moved from Marchesi House (RTBI) to Luxembourg. This was communicated to RTBI by RTI President Majid Tunda (RT Mauritius) where he thanked the Association “for allowing Round Table International to use Marchesi House as our registered address for the last number of years.” 


Formalization of asbl

On January 23, 2019, the RTI Board for 2018–2019 announced the formalization of the legal structure of Round Table International. From that date, RTI officially acquired NGO status under Luxembourg law, operating as Round Table International, asbl (association sans but lucratif).

This development reinforced and highlighted RTI’s commitment to its members by establishing a structured, transparent, and accountable framework. The founding members of the legal entities were:

The official founding documents were signed on that day, witnessed by RTI Vice-President Sebastian Walter (RT Germany) and RTI Secretary Marc Germeshausen (RT Austria).

Special recognition was given to RT Luxembourg, particularly to Gilles Walers (International Secretary) and Charles Muller (RTI President 2001–2002), who were also in attendance for their significant role in facilitating the legal procedures.


 

Fellowship Meetings

Fellowship Meetings are informal gatherings focused on socializing, building friendships, and strengthening camaraderie among members. Unlike Business Meetings, these events are relaxed and centered around activities such as dinners, sports, trips, networking events, or joint meetings with other Tables, fostering a sense of unity and enjoyment. Fellowship Meetings play a vital role in maintaining the spirit of Round Table, encouraging personal connections, and ensuring that the organization remains fun, engaging, and inclusive for all members. Some suggestions include:

Meetings

Casual Social Gatherings such as Themed dinner nights, Pub Quiz, Brewery visit,
Pizza making, hotwing tasting, meal at a remote or small eatery, drink-tasting experience, jam making, Outdoor picnic and games…

Lectures

Olive oil making, guided tours, knot making lesson, photography course, history guides, first-aid, factory or company tour…

Other Activities

Escape room, Murder Mystery Night, Pottery, Poker, laser tag, dance lesson, tabletop wargaming…

Sports events like golf, bowling, kart racing, water sports,

Cross-Table & International Fellowship

    • Joint Meeting with Another Table – Meet up with a nearby Table for a combined event.
    • International Trip – Visit a Round Table in another country and experience their traditions.
    • Home Hosting Exchange – Host members from other Tables for a weekend of activities.

Business Meetings

In the Round Table context, Business Meetings are formal gatherings where members discuss club affairs, plan activities, review finances, and make key decisions regarding events, charitable projects, and administration. These meetings, typically held monthly or bi-monthly, follow a structured agenda, often led by the Chairman, ensuring efficient discussions and decision-making while maintaining the organization’s traditions and values. Business Meetings provide a platform for members to contribute ideas, vote on proposals, and uphold the principles of fellowship, service, and leadership within the Round Table community.


Standard Agenda

Opening Items

    1. Welcome by Chairman.
    2. Sergeant at Arms
    3. Aims and Objectives.
    4. Roll Call and Introductions of Guests.
    5. Reading of minutes of previous meeting, corrections, and approval.
    6. Matters Arising from minutes.

Events

    1. Post mortem of previous events.
    2. Upcoming Events.
    3. Travel Reports and Opportunities.

Table Matters

    1. Correspondance.
    2. Actions.
    3. Travel.
    4. Finances.
    5. Membership.
    6. Any other matters.

 

Aims and Objectives

The Aims and Objectives (previously referred to as Aims and Objects) are the guiding principles for every Table, Association, and RTI itself.

At the start of every formal meeting, be it the Business Meeting of a Table, National Association AGM, or RTI event, the respective Aims and Objectives are read out.

The chairman of the meeting asks all the attendees to “be upstanding”, and asks one of those present to read the Aims and Objectives. In this regard, it is customary to ask the youngest attendee, the newest member or a special guest to read.


The Aims and Objectives of Round Table International are:

    • To promote fellowship and understanding between Round Table Associations worldwide.
    • To promote the formation of new Round Table Associations throughout the world.
    • To initiate, develop and improve working relationships with Club 41 International, Ladies Circle International, Tangent Club International and Agora Club International for fellowship, networking and Joint Service objectives.
    • To promote and administer Joint Service Projects worldwide.

 

The Aims and Objectives of Round Table Clubs might vary, but generally are:


Membership

Membership in Round Table International (RTI) is designed for young men seeking personal growth, community service opportunities, and international camaraderie.
Here’s an overview of the membership process:

Eligibility Criteria:

    • Age Range: Typically between 18 and 40 years old, though some countries extend the upper limit to 45. (more information on the Age Rule)
    • Inclusivity: Open to individuals regardless of religious beliefs or political affiliations.

Joining Process:

    • Invitation-Based Membership: RTI operates as a closed club, meaning prospective members are usually invited by current members.
    • Local Club Affiliation: It’s common to join a club in your area of residence or work to maximize engagement and participation.
    • Induction Procedure: Once a prospect is approved for membership, an induction procedure takes place.

Club Activities:

    • Meeting Frequency: Most clubs convene twice a month, organizing a diverse range of activities.
    • Event Variety: Activities can include local business insights, community service projects, social events, and family-inclusive gatherings.

International Opportunities:

    • Global Network: RTI boasts over 2,300 clubs across more than 65 countries, offering members a vast international community.
    • International Events: Members have the chance to participate in global meetings, conventions, and service projects, fostering cross-cultural friendships and collaborations.

Next Steps:

If you’re interested in joining, consider the following:

    • Connect Locally: Reach out to a nearby Round Table club to express your interest and learn about potential membership opportunities.
    • Engage with Members: Attend local events or meetings as a guest to understand the club’s dynamics and activities.
    • Express Interest: Demonstrating enthusiasm and alignment with RTI’s values can lead to an invitation for membership.

For more detailed information or to find a local club, visit the Round Table International website🔗.