plaatsvervanger

Plaatsvervanger is a Dutch term for a person who temporarily fills a position or performs the duties of another person who is absent, ill, suspended, or otherwise unavailable. The word is formed from plaats (place) and vervanger (substitute). A plaatsvervanger acts with the authority of the person they stand in for, within the scope and time frame defined by the appointment.

The concept is widely used in government, administration, law, and organizational life. In politics and public administration, examples include a plaatsvervangend burgemeester (acting mayor) or substitute board members who take over specific duties when the regular holder is unavailable. In the judiciary and law enforcement, a plaatsvervangend rechter or plaatsvervangend officier van justitie may preside or perform tasks during a temporary vacancy or absence. In business and other organizations, a plaatsvervanger may be appointed to ensure continuity of leadership or decision-making during a leave or incapacity.

Appointments are typically made by the principal authority, such as a mayor, council, board, or statute, and are usually limited in time and scope. The substitute’s powers are defined by the designation and end when the principal resumes duties or the term expires. The concept is distinct from a permanent successor and from a general caretaker or waarnemer, though in practice usage can overlap.

In summary, plaatsvervanger denotes a temporary stand-in empowered to perform the designated duties of another official for a defined period.