Netherlands Politics

In the Netherlands, there is the system of proportional representation, which, when combined with the historical and social division between Catholics, Protestants, Socialists and Liberals, has created a fragmented, multiparty system as a result. This is also the result of a system of politics whcih strives for common consensus on key issues within politics and wider society.

The country remains a monarchy and currently has Queen Beatrix as Head of State. She must co-sign all legislation before it can become law and as such she shares legislative power with the cabinet of the day. Executive power lies with the government.

The major political parties are CDA (the centre-right Christian Democratic party), PvdA (the social democratic, centre-left Labour party), SP (the socialist party) and VVD (the conservative-liberal party).

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