nietstrafende

Nietstrafende is an adjective used in Dutch to describe approaches or responses that do not involve punishment as their primary or automatic response to wrongdoing. The term, sometimes written as niet-strafende, stems from niet (not) and strafende (punishing) and is used in criminology, legal policy, and public debates to contrast with punitive, criminal-justice models that rely on penalties, sanctions, or incarceration.

In practice, nietstrafende policies or practices include warnings, informal dispositions, diversion to social services, or restorative justice processes. They emphasize addressing underlying causes, reducing stigma, and prioritizing rehabilitation and social safety over retribution. In education and youth justice, nietstrafende discipline seeks to resolve misbehavior through guidance, counseling, or restorative circles rather than detention or fines.

Advocates argue that non-punitive approaches can lower recidivism, reduce costs, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals and communities. Critics worry that too little accountability may undermine perceived justice, public trust, or deterrence, particularly in cases involving serious harm. Because it is a broad concept rather than a single policy, nietstrafende encompasses a spectrum of practices that aim to balance accountability with rehabilitation and social support.

Etymology: from Dutch niet (not) and strafende (punishing), used to characterize policies or practices that deliberately eschew punitive responses. See also restorative justice, non-punitive discipline, diversion, and decriminalization.