ABVL Governance
Governance in service of the mission
Preserving the Belle Époque fleet requires a solid, transparent, and efficient structure. Our governance is based on clearly defined statutory bodies, rigorous controls, and a separation of responsibilities between operational management and fund administration. This organization guarantees to our donors and members that every franc is used in accordance with our mission and in compliance with best practices for Swiss non-profit organizations.
As the largest private shareholder of CGN through ABVL/Pro Vapore, we also bear an institutional responsibility which requires impeccable governance.
The General Assembly
The General Assembly brings together all members of the ABVL once a year.
It constitutes the supreme body of the association and holds the major decision-making powers: election of the committee, approval of the annual accounts, amendment of the statutes and definition of strategic directions. Each member has one vote and can express their views on the future of the association.
The committee
President
Vice-president
Treasurer
Secretary
Member
Member
Member
CGN representative, member
Member
Member
Office
Communication & Administration Manager
Accounting manager
Administration Coordinator & Multimedia Designer
Controls and guarantees of transparency
ABVL's financial rigor rests on two complementary pillars. Firstly, an independent auditing body conducts an annual audit of our accounts and confirms their compliance with Swiss accounting standards. Secondly, the Pro Vapore Foundation, established in 2006, manages the funds raised under the supervision of the Geneva Cantonal Foundation Supervisory Service. This dual governance structure guarantees a clear separation between fundraising (ABVL) and fund management (Pro Vapore), offering donors maximum security and complete transparency regarding the use of their contributions.
A strategic player in Lake Geneva's heritage
ABVL does not work alone. We also collaborate with the cantons of Vaud, Geneva, and Valais, essential public partners in financing major restorations. Our work was recognized in 2014 with the Europa Nostra Award, a European distinction that celebrates excellence in the safeguarding of cultural heritage.
Status
All our official documents are publicly accessible in the interest of transparency. You can consult our statutes as well as the minutes of our General Assemblies.
Our detailed annual reports are available on a dedicated page.