neutraal

Neutraal is a Dutch adjective meaning not taking sides, impartial, or lacking charged properties. It describes people, organizations, policies, and objects that aim to avoid bias, preference, or commitment to a particular party. The term can also describe phenomena that are not positively or negatively charged or hue.

In international relations, neutrality refers to a state's stance of non-participation in armed conflict and non-alignment with opposing sides. Neutral states are expected to refrain from providing military support, respect the sovereignty of belligerents, and protect civilians. The concept is recognized in customary international law and, where applicable, treaties.

In science and everyday language, neutraal describes substances with a neutral pH (approximately pH 7). In color theory and design, neutral colors include black, white, gray, and beige, which lack a strong hue and can balance other colors.

In media, journalism, and public discourse, neutrality refers to presenting information in an even-handed, non-partisan way, avoiding advocacy and opinion unless clearly labeled as analysis or opinion.

Etymology: neutraal derives from French neutre, ultimately from Latin neuter, and entered Dutch via Continental European languages. Related terms include onpartijdig (unbiased), objectief (objective), and onafhankelijk (independent).