overgangsperiode

Overgangsperiode, meaning transition period, is a defined span during which changes are introduced gradually to allow groups, institutions, and individuals to adjust to new rules, systems, or conditions. The term is widely used in Dutch-language policy, legal, and organizational contexts. It denotes a temporary phase with planned steps, often complemented by transitional provisions or grace periods.

Characteristics of an overgangsperiode include a clear timeframe with start and end dates, staged milestones or phasing, and mechanisms for oversight and evaluation. It typically specifies responsibilities for authorities, businesses, and other stakeholders, and may include criteria for moving from one phase to the next or for phasing out the old arrangements. The design aims to minimize disruption while enabling effective implementation of change.

Applications occur in multiple domains. In law and policy, overgangsperiodes enable orderly rollout of new regulatory frameworks and allow time for compliance adjustments. In business and technology, they support migrations to new standards, software, or processes without abrupt interruptions. In education and public administration, transitional periods can accompany curriculum reforms or service redesign to preserve access and continuity.

Examples include transitional arrangements around major regulatory changes and the Brexit transition period, which maintained alignment between the UK and the EU during the shift to a new relationship. See also: grace period; phased implementation; transition plan; change management.