betrokken

Betrokken is a Dutch adjective meaning engaged, involved, or concerned. It describes people, groups, or actions that show active participation or a personal stake. In media, politics, and everyday speech, the term signals that someone has a direct interest in a matter or is emotionally connected to it.

Typical usage appears in phrases such as "de betrokkenen" (the people involved or stakeholders) and "betrokkenheid" (involvement or engagement). You can also find expressions like "betrokken bij een project" (involved in a project) or "een betrokken burger" (an engaged citizen). The word can describe both individuals and organizations that take part or assume responsibility.

Etymology and nuance: Betrokken derives from the verb betrekken, with the past participle form used as an adjective. The term often carries a positive connotation of responsibility, care, or empathy, though its tone is largely determined by context. Its antonym is "onbetrokken" meaning unengaged or detached.

In English, the closest translations are "involved," "engaged," or "concerned." The word is a common feature of Dutch public discourse and everyday conversation, where it helps convey the degree of participation or stake someone has in a matter.