Constitution

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Constitution of the Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils (GFSLBC)

Preamble

We, the representatives of independent Sri Lankan Business Councils from around the world, recognizing the power of collaboration, mutual support, and resource-sharing, hereby establish this Constitution to form the Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils (GFSLBC). With the aim of fostering economic growth, facilitating networking, and promoting international cooperation among Sri Lankan businesses, we unite under this Federation to achieve common goals and to empower the Sri Lankan business community worldwide.

Article I: Name and Purpose

1. The name of this organization shall be the "Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils," hereinafter referred to as "GFSLBC."
2. The purpose of GFSLBC is to create a united platform exclusively for Sri Lankan Business Councils from multiple countries to work collaboratively, share resources, and support their member businesses in expanding into global markets, fostering cross-cultural relationships, and growing their respective enterprises through global collaboration.

Article II: Membership

1. Membership in GFSLBC is open to Sri Lankan Business Councils established and operating in different countries, provided that they consist of members associated with reputable and respected businesses and are associated with recognized bodies such as Foreign missions/Embassies or local/international chambers of commerce.
2. Member councils must adhere to stringent criteria for admission, which include paying an entrance fee,  meeting ethical standards, and demonstrating a commitment to GFSLBC's objectives.
3. Member councils shall pay annual dues as determined by the Executive Committee to support the operational activities of GFSLBC.

Article III: Executive Committee

1. The Executive Committee shall serve as the governing body of GFSLBC and shall be composed of representatives from different countries, ensuring equitable representation of Sri Lankan Business Councils.
2. The Executive Committee shall be selected through a process similar to that of the United Nations, and its leadership shall be shared by the Secretary-General of GFSLBC.
3. The Executive Committee shall oversee the strategic direction of GFSLBC, manage finances, and make decisions aligned with the Federation's goals.

Article IV: Executive Membership

The Executive Committee shall consist of the following positions, each with a term limit of three years:

• Secretary-General
• Deputy Secretary-General
• Under-Secretary 
• Deputy Under-Secretary
• Treasurer 
• Deputy Treasurer
   

1. Annual Evaluation: During the AGM, an opportunity shall be provided to raise any concerns against the sitting Executive Committee. If no significant issues are raised, the committee members shall continue their term for another year. However, the maximum term for any position within the Executive Committee shall not exceed three years. A sitting member of the Executive Committee may serve in any other position than the one occupied consecutively, or return to the same position occupied after a period of three years.
    
2. Honorary Advisor: Upon completion of their term, the Secretary-General shall     automatically receive an Honorary Advisor position within GFSLBC. This Advisor shall provide guidance and support to the new Executive Committee. The incoming committee shall actively seek advice and counsel from the Advisor(s) to ensure a seamless transition of leadership. This honorary position is automatically awarded only if the Secretary-General 

Article V: Security Council

1. The Security Council shall comprise of ambassadors from member councils to ensure that the interests of each country’s business council are represented equally and fairly. 

2. The members of the Security Council shall be the active Presidents of each member Business Council for the duration of their term. If any President of a member council cannot actively participate due to any reason, they may appoint someone else they deem capable in their council to represent the council on his/her behalf.

Article VI: Objectives

1. Facilitate networking opportunities among member Sri Lankan Business Councils to foster collaboration, resource-sharing, and joint initiatives.
2. Support member businesses in their endeavors to access international markets and opportunities.
3. Promote the growth of the global Sri Lankan business community by providing access to educational resources, expert advice, mentoring, and by rebranding Sri Lanka's image      to enhance tourism and attract investment.
4. Serve as a united front for promoting the interests of member businesses to governmental and non-governmental bodies on a global scale.

Article VII: Activities

1. Organize global business summits, seminars, and workshops to enhance the knowledge, skills, and networks of member businesses.
2. Foster partnerships and collaborations between member businesses for joint projects, investments, market expansions, and increasing tourism to Sri Lanka.

Article VIII: Termination of Membership

1. Membership can be terminated if a member Sri Lankan Business Council violates GFSLBC's ethical standards, engages in unlawful activities, or fails to meet its financial obligations.
2. Termination shall follow a fair and transparent process as outlined in GFSLBC's bylaws.

Article IX: Amendments

1. This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Committee, provided that the proposed amendments have been circulated to all member Sri Lankan Business Councils at least three months prior to the vote.

Article X: Ratification

This Constitution shall come into effect upon ratification by at least two-thirds of the member Sri Lankan Business Councils.

Article XI: Head Office and Executive Team

1. The head office of GFSLBC shall be located in Tokyo.
2. The Executive Committee shall comprise of members from multiple Sri Lankan Business Councils, representing diverse regions and interests.

Article XII: Meetings

1. Executive Committee Meetings: The Executive Members of each Member Council shall convene via Zoom at least once every three months to discuss progress, set new goals, address challenges, and facilitate effective communication among members. In case of urgent matters, emergency meetings can be convened within 24 hours.

2. Annual General Meeting (AGM): A physical AGM shall be held once a year in a different country, hosted by a rotating Member Council. The host country's Member Council shall organize the AGM, including forums, workshops, meetings, and the official AGM of GFSLBC. This event shall provide a platform for in-depth discussions, networking, and planning for the Federation.

Article XIII: Governing Principles

In all matters not covered by this Constitution, the principles and practices of the United Nations, other global associations, councils, federations, and relevant international norms shall be referred to for guidance.

Article XIV: Accountability of Member Councils

If any member of a council associated with GFSLBC engages in unethical, illegal, or wrongful business practices, their associated council must conduct a proper investigation and take necessary actions guided by GFSLBC. Failure to do so may result in the expulsion of the council itself from GFSLBC.

Article XV: Superseding Previous Agreements

This Constitution shall be ratified by the member Sri Lankan Business Councils and shall supersede any previous agreements or constitutions.

In witness whereof, we, the undersigned representatives of the Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils, have adopted this Constitution on this 9th of October, 2023 in Tokyo.