toezichtregime

Toezichtregime refers to the system of rules, institutions, and procedures established by law to supervise and regulate a particular sector, activity, or organization. It defines who is subject to oversight, what obligations apply, and how compliance is monitored and enforced. A toezichtregime aims to protect public interests, ensure market integrity and safety, and promote consumer protection, financial stability, or other policy goals depending on the domain.

Core elements include the regulatory framework (legislation and standards), licensing and authorization powers, ongoing supervision (risk assessments, reporting requirements, and inspections), governance and internal-control requirements for supervised entities, and enforcement tools (warnings, penalties, or restrictions). Cooperation among authorities, including cross-border information sharing, is also common. Crisis management and, when needed, resolution mechanisms may be part of the regime.

The regime is typically risk-based and proportionate, applying stricter oversight to higher-risk actors while allowing lighter-touch supervision for lower-risk ones. It emphasizes transparency, accountability, consistency, and evidence-based decision-making, with opportunities for appeal or review of supervisory actions.

Regimes vary by sector and country. In the financial sector, supervision often involves multiple authorities and aligns with international standards and, where applicable, European rules. Regimes are reviewed and adjusted over time to address new risks, technologies, and market structures.