Related Sponsors

The Government of Netherlands

Home » The Netherlands » Netherlands - Overview and History » The Government of Netherlands

The Netherlands has been a parliamentary democracy since 1848. Before that time it has been a monarchy and still retains a head of state, which is currently a queen. The monarch, while many of the people of Netherlands look to for government announcements, is a position that is mainly ceremonial in function. The monarch does have some real powers though that they are needed to sign any law or warrant before it goes into effect. The members of the parliament are all adopted into their respective houses by the ruling of the monarch. While this may seem like the monarch has too much power, the formal adoption comes after a vote by the people and political parties.

One important thing about the parliament that the Dutch government runs is that it is more of a coalition, rather that a major/minority or a bi-partisan government. While the United States may be made up of Democrats and Republicans and some others, the Dutch government has many different factions within their parliament. The parliament is also split into two houses, the lower house and the Senate. While the parliament procedures may be confusing to some, one thing is simple to this government and that is they are incredibly liberal and tolerant. The approved ruling by the parliament to allow the legal use of some drugs in certain areas of the country has placed Netherlands into a category that is incredibly unique. Also their policies on euthanasia, prostitution, and same-sex marriage make the Dutch government one of the most tolerant, and sometimes chastised in the entire world.

Next Page: The Economics of Netherlands

Related Netherlands - Overview and History Articles