The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy. The Dutch constitution was adopted in 1815 and has been amended many times since. Today the government consists of the monarch and her ministers. The Dutch bicameral States General consists of the First- and Second Chambers. There is also a Council of State composed of the monarch, the heir apparent and a number of councillors. The capital of the Netherlands is Amsterdam, but the government is seated in The Hague.

 

Head of state: Queen Beatrix

Heads of government: Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and Deputy Prime Ministers Gerrit Zalm and Laurens Jan Brinkenhorst