bemoeiing

Bemoeiing is a Dutch noun that refers to the act of meddling or interfering in someone else’s affairs, or to involvement by an external actor in a matter. The term generally carries a negative connotation, suggesting intrusive or unwelcome participation. In some contexts, bemoeiing can also denote legitimate or constructive involvement, but this is less common in everyday usage.

The expression typically appears with the reflexive verb zich bemoeien met, meaning to meddle with or involve oneself in something. For example, people may talk about parental bemoeien in children's choices, or discuss international or governmental bemoeienis in domestic affairs. In political discourse, bemoeiing often concerns external interference by foreign powers or organizations in a country’s policy, elections, or governance.

Etymology and usage: bemoeiing is formed from bemoeien, with the agentive suffix -ing, and is used in both formal and informal registers. It can appear in phrases such as “overheidsbemoeienis” (government intervention) or “zonder bemoeienis” (without interference).

Context and implications: bemoeiing is typically viewed with caution, reflecting a tension between autonomy and outside involvement. In international relations, principles of sovereignty and non-interference frame discussions of bemoeiing, while in social policy, some argue that targeted bemoeiing can provide necessary support or oversight.

See also: bemoeizucht (meddlesome intrusion), interfere (interferentie).