weisungsgebunden

Weisungsgebunden is an adjective used to describe a person or organization that is bound to follow instructions or directives issued by a superior or central authority. The term combines Weisung (instruction, directive) with gebunden (bound), and is common in administrative, organizational, and labor contexts. It signals a hierarchical relationship in which decisions and actions are to a large extent determined by higher-ranking authorities.

In public administration and civil service the concept plays a central role. Beamtinnen und Beamte (civil servants) and other officials are typically described as weisungsgebunden, meaning they carry out official acts under the instructions of their superiors. They must comply with lawful directives and maintain a consistent, uniform implementation of policy. The obligation to follow orders is understood within the framework of legality, discretion, and professional duties; illegal directives are not binding and may require resistance or legal remedy.

In the private sector, employees can also be characterized as weisungsgebunden when their work is governed by employer instructions and the terms of the employment contract, within the limits set by labor law, collective agreements, and protective regulations. The degree of bindingness can vary by role, contract, and organizational culture, affecting autonomy and initiative.

The term is primarily descriptive and neutral, used to discuss organizational structure, governance, and human resources. It is often contrasted with concepts like selbstständig (self-employed or autonomous) or eigenverantwortlich (independently responsible) to highlight differences in the scope of discretion and control within a position.