bestuursbeginsel

Bestuursbeginsel is a Dutch term referring to the general standards that govern the actions of public authorities in decision-making. In Dutch administrative law it is often discussed under the broader heading beginselen van behoorlijk bestuur, the principles of good governance. The concept describes how authorities must act when making decisions that affect private individuals or organizations.

Key elements commonly included are: a legal basis for the act (legaliteitsbeginsel); decisions must not be arbitrary and should be grounded in relevant facts. The process should be careful and thorough (zorgvuldigheidsbeginsel), with proper weighing of interests and avoidance of irrelevant factors. Decisions must be reasoned and explained (motiveringsbeginsel), so affected parties understand the basis for conclusions. There is a duty to give others the opportunity to be heard (recht op bijtijds horen) in appropriate procedures. Equality and non-discrimination (gelijkheidsbeginsel) require that similar cases are treated alike. Proportionality (evenredigheidsbeginsel) demands that measures are suitable, necessary, and not excessive in relation to the aim. Openness and publicity (openbaarheid) of procedures and decisions are encouraged where possible.

Scope and use: these principles apply to administrative acts by national, provincial, and municipal authorities. They function as standards against which decisions are judged, and they guide everyday public administration as well as judicial review. When a decision breaches these principles, affected parties can challenge it in administrative courts or via procedures to revise or revoke the decision.