laaggroep

Laaggroep is a Dutch term used in sociological and organizational contexts to refer to a subgroup within a larger organization or society that is perceived to have lower status, influence, or resources compared to other groups. The word is a compound of laag ('low') and groep ('group'). The term is not a formal designation and does not refer to a universally defined category; its meaning varies with context and speaker.

In political science, laaggroep can describe a minority or peripheral faction within a parliament or party that has limited representation or influence. In organizational theory, it can denote lower-level teams or departments within a corporation or public institution. In sociology, it may describe a group marginalized by structural inequalities, such as workers in entry-level positions or residents in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. The concept is sometimes viewed as pejorative and its use requires careful qualification.

In practice, analyses may focus on the structure of laaggroepen, their needs, and the mechanisms by which they gain representation or resources, such as coalition-building, policy reform, or targeted programs. Critiques emphasize that labeling a group as 'laaggroep' can obscure differences within the group and overlook agency. See also: subgroup, social stratification, political minority.