pressmelding

A pressmelding is an official notification issued to journalists to communicate information to the public. In Dutch-language media and public relations, the term designates a formal statement from an organization, government body, or company that aims to inform the media about newsworthy developments. It is typically prepared in advance and distributed through designated channels.

Usage and purpose: Pressmeldingen are used for announcements, updates on ongoing events, policy changes, incident reports, or the disclosure of an official position. They may precede or accompany other media activities such as a press conference or briefing, and are intended to provide timely, verified information from an authoritative source.

Content and format: A pressmelding usually includes a dateline, a concise lede that states the core facts (who, what, when, where, why), background information, potential quotes from a spokesperson, and practical details (dates, locations, next steps). It also lists media contact persons for follow‑up questions and may specify how to obtain additional material or comment.

Distribution: They are disseminated via emails to media lists, posted on organizational press portals, and sometimes published on social media or through newswires. In crisis or emergency situations, a pressmelding can be part of a broader communications effort and may be updated as new information becomes available.

Relation to persbericht: While closely related to the persbericht (press release), a pressmelding emphasizes the act of notifying the press and providing timely updates or urgent information, whereas a persbericht often functions as a fuller, formal narrative of a news item.