Einverständnis

Einverständnis is a German term for the voluntary and informed agreement of a person to a proposed action or situation. It implies that the person approves of and understands the implications, and that no coercion or manipulation is involved.

In everyday and legal language, Einverständnis can be used broadly to denote consent, assent, or approval. In professional contexts, more precise terms are often used: Einwilligung refers to an informed and specific consent, especially in medical treatment or data processing, while Zustimmung denotes general agreement or approval.

For a consent to be valid, the person must have the capacity to decide and must be adequately informed about what is being proposed, including risks, consequences, and alternatives. The freedom to withdraw consent at any time is usually required. If a person lacks decision-making capacity, consent must be given by a legal representative or guardian according to applicable law; coercion, deception, or undue influence invalidates consent.

In practice, Einverständnis underpins personal autonomy in areas such as medical treatment, contracts, and research, and is also emphasized in sexual ethics as mutual agreement between parties. The term remains closely related to Einwilligung and Zustimmung, but its precise use can vary by legal or professional context.