What does the term quorum refer to in parliamentary procedure?

The term quorum in parliamentary procedure refers to the minimum number of members required to conduct a meeting, ensuring that decisions made are representative of the group. This is important because it prevents decisions from being made by an insufficiently representative body, which could undermine the legitimacy of the meeting's outcomes. Establishing a quorum helps to maintain order and adherence to the rules, as it provides assurance that a majority of the group is present and participating in the decision-making process.

A quorum is essential for the validity of the meeting and for conducting business, which underscores the democratic nature of parliamentary procedure. Without a quorum, decisions may not reflect the will of the entire membership, leading to potential disputes and a lack of accountability within the organization.