familieontmoeting

Familieontmoeting is a Dutch term for a meeting between family members, arranged to facilitate dialogue, contact, or decision-making. It can be an informal gathering, such as a planned family reunion, or a formal process organized by professionals to support communication and plans within families.

Contexts and use

In everyday life, familieontmoeting may occur to celebrate, discuss arrangements, or resolve conflicts within a family. In child welfare and family law, it denotes a mediated encounter between a child and their parents or guardians, often as part of custody decisions, foster care arrangements, or adoption procedures. In these contexts the aim is to improve contact under agreed rules and safeguards, sometimes with the involvement of a mediator or social worker. The concept can also appear in immigrant or asylum procedures when maintaining or re-establishing family ties is relevant.

Process and participants

A familleontmoeting is typically prepared in advance. A mediator, social worker, or other professional may help set goals, establish ground rules, and ensure safety and accessibility. Participants usually include family members and, depending on the context, a professional facilitator. The meeting can take place in a neutral setting and may be a single session or part of a series, with follow-up planned to monitor agreements or progress.

Benefits and considerations

When well facilitated, familnieontmoeting can improve understanding, clarify expectations, and establish contact arrangements or reconciliations. Challenges include the potential for renewed conflicts, emotional distress, or outcomes that do not meet expectations. The process should always prioritize the safety and well-being of all involved, especially children.

See also

Family mediation, family therapy, child welfare, custody and contact arrangements, reunification.