Public-benefit associations of general interest are those registered in the General Registry of Associations of the Basque Country, recognised as such by a Basque Government decree, in compliance with the requirements set out in Law 7/2007 of 22 June, on Associations of the Basque Country. Art. 5

Those associations registered in the General Registry of Associations of the Basque Country, which contribute, by carrying out their activities, to the pursuit of the general interest or the common good through the promotion of values of generosity, altruism, solidarity and pluralism shall be recognised as being of public benefit, where they also meet the following criteria:

• These entities must promote the general interest or the common good through the effective and continuous realisation of objectives of a civic, educational, scientific, cultural, sporting and medical nature, inter alia those aimed at promoting human rights, social intervention, development cooperation, gender equality, protecting children, promoting equal opportunities and tolerance, defending the environment, promoting the social economy or research, volunteering, defending consumers, promoting and assisting immigrants and those at risk of exclusion for physical, social, economic or cultural reasons, and any other purpose of a similar nature.
• Its activity must not be mainly or habitually directed towards the interests of associates but rather third parties outside the association.
• Ensure there are sufficient human and material resources and an adequate organisational structure to ensure fulfilment of the statutory objectives.
• The number of people employed or contracted through service agreements by the association must be negligible in relation to the group of associates.
• Provide evidence of effective routine compliance with the statutory objectives for a minimum of three years preceding the submission of the application.
• Members of the governing body shall perform their duties free of charge and without receiving any remuneration. However, they may receive adequate remuneration for services rendered outside of their defined roles and responsibilities as members of the governing body.
• Conduct orderly and transparent financial management.
• Ensure that their actual activities are adequate for the purposes of general interest pursued. Law 7/2007 of 22 June, on Associations of the Basque Country. Art. 42