What characterizes an executive session?

An executive session is characterized by its confidentiality, meaning that the discussions that take place are not open to the public or non-members. This private format is typically used in various organizations, including those governed by boards or committees, to address sensitive matters such as personnel issues, legal matters, or strategic planning. The goal of an executive session is to allow members to speak candidly without external pressures or concerns over public scrutiny.

In this context, other options do not accurately capture the essence of an executive session. Open discussions on all topics would generally be associated with public meetings rather than the private nature of an executive session. Allowing guests contradicts the premise of confidentiality, as guests could introduce external viewpoints and challenges to the privacy of the discussions. Likewise, while financial discussions could occur in an executive session, it is not exclusive to financial matters, as these sessions can cover a wide variety of topics that require discretion. Hence, the defining characteristic of an executive session is its secrecy and restricted access.