Verwelkoming

Verwelkoming is the act or process of welcoming someone into a group, community, organization, or setting. It encompasses initial greetings, introductions to members and norms, and the provision of information and resources that enable the newcomer to participate and feel at ease.

Etymology: The term is Dutch, formed from the verb welkomen (to welcome) with the prefix ver-, indicating a process or action. It is used in formal and informal contexts to describe the act of greeting and integrating newcomers.

Contexts: Verwelkoming occurs in migration and integration efforts by governments, municipalities, and NGOs; in educational institutions and workplaces through onboarding or orientation programs; during events, conferences, and in online communities, often through welcome committees, mentors, or buddy systems.

Typical elements: a warm reception, an introduction to key contacts, guidance on practical matters (housing, healthcare, transport), orientation to local norms and policies, language support or cultural mediation, and follow-up assistance rather than a one-off gesture.

Impact and considerations: When well implemented, verwelkoming fosters belonging, reduces isolation, and supports participation and retention. Effective verwelkoming is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and integrated with longer-term inclusion strategies rather than treating it as a single moment.