The Netherlands is a democracy (de democratie): the people decide in elections who will govern the country. It is also a kingdom, but the power to govern lies with elected politicians.

The most important law

De Grondwet (the constitution) is the most important law of the country. It describes the basic rights (for example the ban on discrimination and freedom of religion and speech) and how the state works. All other laws must follow the constitution. Parliament (het parlement) is not a law but an institution; do not confuse the two.

Parliament and government

Parliament is called de Staten-Generaal and has two chambers: de Tweede Kamer and de Eerste Kamer.
De Tweede Kamer is the most important chamber. The people elect it directly. It debates laws and checks the government. In photos you see its modern plenary hall with blue seats.
De Eerste Kamer checks laws one last time. It meets in a smaller, historic hall.
Parliament and the government (de regering) are in Den Haag (The Hague).
The prime minister (de minister-president) chairs the council of ministers (de ministerraad). This is not the king's job.

Elections and parties

Elections (de verkiezingen) for the Tweede Kamer are normally held every four years. If the government falls early, elections can come sooner.
The voting (stemmen) age is 18.
There are many political parties (de politieke partij). Usually no single party wins a majority, so several parties form a coalition government together.

The municipality

Each municipality (de gemeente) is led by a mayor (de burgemeester). At official ceremonies the mayor wears a large chain of office (de ambtsketen). If you see this chain in an exam photo, you know the person is a mayor.