A difficult story seems to be coming to a happy ending. After a new association called FSVH was founded in 2013 to inherit the two previous classic car umbrella associations FSVA and Swiss Oldtimers, there was resistance to what many exponents of the clubs represented in the associations saw as an undemocratic approach, which also led to the "pro FSVA" counter-movement.
However, hardly anyone doubted that a single classic car association representing the interests of small Switzerland was the right solution.
After months of disputes, everything now seems to be turning out well. The two existing associations have agreed to seek a merger in joint discussions.
The two previous umbrella associations, the FSVA and Swiss Oldtimers, informed their members today under the heading "New single umbrella association for classic cars in Switzerland" as follows:
"Our two associations have set up a commission with equal representation, each with three of our board members. Its task is to identify ways to create a single Swiss classic car umbrella organization and it will submit a proposal for the merger of the two umbrella organizations. Details such as procedure, statutes, name and finances will be communicated later. The aim is for the merger to be completed by June 30, 2015 at the latest.
The boards of our two umbrella organizations are in agreement with this approach. They are hoping for the support of as many member clubs as possible in order to create a single, strong classic car umbrella association in Switzerland."
However, it will be up to the delegates to decide whether a unified association will actually be created, and a 75% share of the vote is required for a positive decision. However, the chances are not bad that the voters will one day approve the new solution, as the procedure now chosen should actually be able to dispel all the concerns previously expressed.