Fortbestand

Fortbestand is a Dutch term that refers to the continued existence or lasting continuity of something, especially institutions, regulations, rights, or policy arrangements. It is commonly employed in legal, administrative, and governmental contexts to express the aim of preserving the current status or ensuring long-term viability.

The concept is distinct from but related to voortbestaan; while fortbestand emphasizes permanence and durability within a formal framework, voortbestaan more broadly denotes ongoing existence or survival over time. Both terms appear in policy documents, charters, and planning reports, but fortbestand is more likely to appear as a stated object or principle.

In practice, fortbestand can indicate: (1) safeguarding the continuity of public services; (2) retaining specific legal rights or social arrangements; (3) maintaining organizational structures or fiscal commitments; (4) preserving cultural heritage or archival holdings. The phrase often appears in government white papers, budget notes, and strategic plans, where authorities articulate the desire to maintain existing arrangements rather than introduce radical change.

See also: Voortbestaan; Continuïteit; Duurzaamheid; Behoud; Rechtspositie.