odgovornost

Odgovornost is a noun in Croatian, Slovenian, Bosnian, and Serbian used to denote the state or quality of being responsible, answerable, or liable for something. It encompasses moral obligation, social duty, and legal accountability, and can apply to individuals, organizations, and institutions.

Etymology: the term derives from the root odgovor meaning "answer" plus affixes to form an abstract noun; cognates exist across South Slavic languages and related terms in neighboring language families.

In ethics and philosophy, odgovornost refers to the virtue of taking responsibility for one’s actions, recognizing consequences, and being prepared to explain or justify them. In law, it denotes liability and accountability, meaning that a person or entity may have to repair damage, compensate victims, or face sanctions.

Types and contexts include moral responsibility, legal or civil liability, professional responsibility, and corporate or collective responsibility. In practice, it is tied to frameworks of governance, compliance, risk management, and corporate social responsibility, with expectations of transparency and accountability toward others, such as citizens, clients, or stakeholders.

See also: accountability, liability, responsibility.