correctescheiding

Correctescheiding is a Dutch term used to describe the principle of ensuring a proper and clear division of distinct functions, powers, or domains within a system, organization, or society. The aim is to reduce overlap, prevent conflicts of interest, and clarify accountability by assigning responsibilities to separate actors or processes.

The word combines correct, meaning proper, with scheiding, meaning separation. It appears in Dutch-language legal, administrative, and scholarly writing as a descriptive concept rather than a formal doctrine, and is applied across many fields where clear boundaries between roles or activities are seen as essential.

Common contexts include constitutional law (the correct separation of powers among legislative, executive, and judiciary branches); corporate governance (segregation of duties to prevent fraud and errors); information security and data governance (separating duties such as data collection, processing, and authorization); and public administration (clear delineation of tasks between agencies).

Implementation challenges can include complexity, cost, and organizational resistance, and practical guidance emphasizes formal policies, audits, and transparent processes to enforce boundaries.

See also: separation of powers; segregation of duties; governance; accountability.