Gestremde

Gestremde is a Dutch term that historically refers to a person with a disability, especially someone whose physical condition limits mobility or daily functioning. In modern usage the word can denote disability in a broad sense, but its acceptability varies by context and speaker. Some consider gestremde outdated or stigmatizing, and many prefer person-first language such as "personen met een handicap" or "personen met een beperking" to emphasize the person before the condition.

Etymology and scope: The adjective gestremd derives from "gestremd," meaning constrained, hindered or blocked. The noun gestremde emerged in welfare and medical discourse and has appeared in public policy, media and everyday speech.

Rights and policy: In the Netherlands and Flanders, disability rights movements advocate for equal participation, accessible infrastructure, and inclusive education and employment. Legal frameworks include constitutional equality guarantees, the Wet gelijke behandeling (Anti-Discrimination Act), the WMO (Social Support Act), and the Participatiewet (Participation Act). The Netherlands is a party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Policy aims focus on accessibility, assistive technology, communication access, and social integration.

Language and practice: In public and professional settings, preference is increasingly for person-first language and neutral or positive framing. Disability-related services are provided through welfare agencies, healthcare, and social services, with emphasis on autonomy, choice, and community participation.

See also: Disability rights, Accessibility, Disability in the Netherlands.