toezicht

Toezicht, literally "oversight" or "supervision," denotes the activity of authorities and designated bodies to monitor and regulate the conduct of individuals, organizations, and processes to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and standards. The aim is to protect public interests, safeguard safety, and maintain orderly and fair markets and services.

Toezicht is performed by public authorities, independent regulators, and other supervisory bodies. These entities may have broad or sector-specific mandates and operate at national, regional, or local levels. They assess risk, set or approve standards, grant licenses, and monitor compliance through inspections, reporting requirements, and investigations.

Enforcement tools include sanctions, fines, corrective orders, withdrawal of licenses, and public guidance. Oversight activities are usually based on statutes and regulations, with procedures intended to ensure due process and accountability. Decisions are typically subject to appeals or judicial review, and authorities publish findings to promote transparency.

In corporate governance, toezicht also describes the supervisory function of a raad van toezicht (supervisory board) overseeing management, balancing control with strategy and accountability.