fortroligheden

Fortroligheden refers to the state or obligation of keeping information private and sharing it only with those who have a legitimate need to know. The term denotes trust, discretion, and responsibility in handling sensitive information. In Danish usage, fortrolighed is used in both everyday language and professional contexts to describe the obligation to protect confidential information.

In professional ethics and law, fortroligheden arises from codes of conduct and legal frameworks. Common examples include the relationship between patient and physician, lawyer and client, and journalist and source. Professionals are generally bound to refrain from sharing information learned in the course of their work unless the person concerned consents or a legal exception applies. Exceptions may include safeguarding health or safety, preventing crime, or complying with mandatory reporting or court orders.

In information security, fortrolighed is one pillar of data protection. Technical measures such as access controls, encryption, and secure storage help ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information. Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and contractual obligations formalize fortrolighed in business relationships.

In everyday life, fortroligheden supports trust and privacy in personal relationships. It also raises ethical questions when competing duties or public interest considerations arise. Overall, fortroligheden is a foundational concept that enables confidential communication, professional integrity, and responsible data handling.