Why is it necessary for motions to be seconded?

Motions must be seconded to prevent frivolous motions. This practice serves as a safeguard within parliamentary procedure, ensuring that proposals brought to the floor have at least some level of support from other members before they are discussed. When a motion is seconded, it signals that at least one other member believes the motion is worthy of consideration, which helps to filter out ideas that may not be of sufficient interest or seriousness to the group as a whole.

This mechanism fosters efficient meetings by preventing time from being spent on proposals that lack broader backing, thereby maintaining focus on matters that have genuine relevance and support among the group. It encourages thoughtful participation rather than allowing any member to raise motion after motion without acknowledgment from others, which could lead to chaos or inefficiency in the decision-making process.