Question from a reader:
Can the president of a neighborhood association be elected? In my area, the president is simply succeeded by the vice president, and the system has become outdated. At the annual general meeting, proxy votes are distributed, and the president is merely confirmed, resulting in a situation where no real election takes place. I think this is problematic,
but could you provide specific methods on how to improve the neighborhood association?
Legal Background on Neighborhood Association Elections
Neighborhood associations are voluntary organizations formed by local residents, playing a role in promoting community welfare and activities. The method of selecting the president varies based on local government laws and the regulations of each area, but generally, it is expected to be chosen through a general meeting or election. However, as the questioner points out, if no real election is held, there is a risk that the operation of the neighborhood association may stagnate. Legally, it is important to establish the method of selecting the president in the association’s regulations. If the regulations state, “The president is succeeded directly by the vice president,” that procedure is considered legitimate. However, formal procedures that do not reflect the opinions and participation of local residents may deviate from democratic management. In this case, it is necessary to review the neighborhood association’s regulations and change to a transparent election method.
Analysis from a Psychological Perspective
The selection of leadership in community settings is heavily influenced by psychological factors. People tend to feel dissatisfaction when their opinions are not reflected, leading to a diminished sense of belonging to the community. If the process of selecting the president is opaque, residents may feel that “participation is meaningless,” resulting in decreased involvement in the neighborhood association. Additionally, trust in leadership is an important factor. Leaders chosen through legitimate elections are more likely to gain the trust of residents and stimulate their willingness to participate in community activities. Psychologically, the “principle of representation” operates for leaders elected through elections, causing residents to feel that those leaders represent them, which encourages more active participation in community activities.
Ethical Considerations
In the operation of neighborhood associations, ethical aspects cannot be overlooked. Respecting the opinions of local residents is essential for ensuring the transparency of the association. Conducting substantial elections, rather than just formal votes of confidence, is an important means of reflecting residents’ opinions and is ethically desirable. Moreover, if the selection of leadership is unclear, distrust may arise among local residents. In such situations, community unity and cooperation can be undermined, potentially leading to dysfunction within the entire community.
Practical Guidelines
To improve the operation of the neighborhood association, it is important to consider the following steps.
1. Review the Neighborhood Association Regulations
First, it is necessary to examine the current regulations of the neighborhood association and review the operational policies, including the method of selecting the president. Consider whether the contents specified in the regulations align with reality and propose amendments as needed.
2. Gather Residents’ Opinions
Next, holding forums or workshops to gather residents’ opinions can be effective. By providing a space for residents to express their views, participation awareness can be heightened, and the transparency of votes of confidence can be improved.
3. Introduce a Transparent Election Process
To conduct a substantial election, it is necessary to establish an election management committee and create a fair election process. During elections, informing residents about candidates’ pledges and opinions, and raising awareness of the importance of elections can encourage greater participation.
4. Enhance Community Activities
Enhancing community activities is also important for increasing residents’ sense of participation. By sharing a vision and creating opportunities for residents to collaboratively think about solutions to community issues, trust in the neighborhood association and a sense of belonging can be strengthened.
5. Create a Feedback Mechanism
After elections, it is desirable to establish a mechanism for receiving feedback from residents regarding the results and processes. This will allow for identifying areas for improvement for the next election, ensuring that the operation of the neighborhood association continually evolves.
Conclusion
The method of selecting the president of the neighborhood association requires a review from legal, psychological, and ethical perspectives. By respecting residents’ opinions and introducing a transparent election process, it is possible to strengthen community unity and foster a vibrant community. Neighborhood associations are voluntary organizations formed by local residents, and their operations must meet the needs of the residents. Building on the concerns of the questioner, efforts to realize a better form of neighborhood association are anticipated. I encourage all readers to think about their local neighborhood associations and share new ideas and opinions. Considering the future of the community together should lead to the formation of a better community.
