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Netherlands

Boundary Delimitation
Direct Democracy
Electoral Management
Electoral Systems
Legislative Framework
Media and Elections
Parties and Candidates
Vote Counting
Voter Education
Voting Operations
Voter Registration

Boundary Delimitation

BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?

b. No, existing regional/provincial/other boundaries are used

Comments: Only electoral districts are used (19 for national elections; boundaries mostly according to existing boundaries of the 12 provinces and the main cities).
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 14:45:54 GMT

BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:

e. Not applicable

Comments: No constituencies used for election purposes.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:50:00 GMT

BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?

h. Not applicable

Comments: No constituencies used for election purposes.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:51:09 GMT

BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?

g. Not applicable

Comments: No constituencies used for election purposes.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:52:15 GMT

BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:

g. Not applicable

Comments: No constituencies used for election purposes.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:53:31 GMT

BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?

m. Not applicable

Comments: No constituencies used for election purposes.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:54:33 GMT

Direct Democracy

DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.

a. Name and Title: Pamela Young LL.M
b. Job Title: Deputy secretary of the Electoral Council (Kiesraad)
c. Organisation: The Electoral Council (of the Netherlands)
d. Contact Address. Postbus 20011, 2500 EA The Hague, the Netherlands
e. Telephone: +31 70 426 6266
f. Facsimile: +31 70 426 7634
g. Email: [email protected]

Last updated: 2005-08-19 13:56:01 UTC

DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level? Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:

d. Agenda initiative

Comments: From 2002 until (1st January) 2005 the Temporary referendum act (Tijdelijke referendumwet abbreviated Trw) was in force. The act made optional, advisory referendums possible by a formal demand of a number of citizens. On 1 June 2005 an advisory referendum was held in The Netherlands on the European Constitution. This referendum was based on an act of 4 February 2005 (Advisory Referendum on the European Constitution-act, abbreviated to WRREG). The WRREG had no other purpose than to make the referendum on the European constitution possible. It is currently possible for citizens to introduce an agenda initiative into the Tweede Kamer (Burgerinitiatief). Agenda initiatives can be introduced by gathering 40,000 signatures supporting the initiative. Subsequently, the proposal is to be considered by the House of Representatives. Regulations supporting the agenda initiative were introduced on 1 May 2006, by changing the Rules of Procedure of the Tweede Kamer. The provisions for agenda initiatives can be found in chapter XA of the Rules of Procedure for the Tweede Kamer, article 132a.
Source: B.H. van Houten, Legal Adviser, Information Point for Elections
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:01:20 UTC

DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?

b. Specific laws/legislation

Comments: For each (optional) referendum a specific law has to be passed by Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:02:08 UTC

DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:01:37 UTC

DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:02:34 UTC

DD101 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:16:03 UTC

DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?

c. Other (specify)

Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:16:34 UTC

DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:16:58 UTC

DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:17:14 UTC

DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?

d. Other (specify)

Comments: d.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:17:43 UTC

DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?

a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms

b. Other government department

Comments: b.) The Ministry of the Interior runs a voter education campaign. Local Governments also pay attention to the elections or a referendum.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:20:01 UTC

DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:20:39 UTC

DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:20:53 UTC

DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?

a. Information booklets

b. Leaflets and pamphlets

c. Radio broadcasts

d. TV broadcasts

e. Press advertisements

f. Website

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:21:42 UTC

DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?

i. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:22:04 UTC

DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?

i. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:22:33 UTC

DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?

g. None

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:29:30 UTC

DD113 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?

h. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:29:47 UTC

DD114 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?

h. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:30:00 UTC

DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:30:36 UTC

DD116 What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:31:13 UTC

DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:31:27 UTC

DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

b. Selected campaign organisations

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:31:54 UTC

DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:32:09 UTC

DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:32:26 UTC

DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

a. Financial grant

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:32:58 UTC

DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:33:19 UTC

DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:33:35 UTC

DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?

b. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:34:00 UTC

DD125 Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?

a. Yes

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:34:16 UTC

DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?

Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level? Date (yyyy)

b. Optional referendum 2002 and 4th February 2005

Comments: 1st January 2002*:This law (Trw) is not in force anymore (see comments A.1.1). 4th February 2005: This is the law (WRREG) based on which the referendum on the European Constitution will be held on June 1st. The law is specifically for this referendum.
Source: Wet Raadplegend Referendum Europese Grondwet (WRREG)
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)

b. Optional referendum 2002 and 4th February 2005

Comments: The 2002 regulations (Tijdelijk referendumbesluit abbreviation Trb) are based on the Trw and are also not in force anymore (see comments A.1.1). The 2004 regulations (Besluit raadplegend referendum Europese Grondwet) are based on the WRREG (see comments A.1.1.). They are regulations specifically for the referendum on the European Constitution.
Source: Wet Raadplegend Referendum Europese Grondwet (WRREG)
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?

a. Government (specify department)

b. Independent electoral commission

Comments: a.) Ministry of Interior and the Local Government. The local municipalities organize the referendum, the Minister of the Interior is overall responsible and the Electoral Council determines the result.
Source: The specific law for the referendum, the Elections Act and the Elections Decree.
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?

a. Yes

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:17:07 UTC

DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:17:38 UTC

DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:18:01 UTC

DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:18:23 UTC

DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:18:42 UTC

DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:19:04 UTC

DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:22:12 UTC

DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

b. Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:22:28 UTC

DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:22:47 UTC

DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

b. Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:23:08 UTC

DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:23:24 UTC

DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?

k. None

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:23:51 UTC

DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?

k. None

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:24:11 UTC

DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?

k. None

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:24:37 UTC

DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?

e. None

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:25:08 UTC

DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?

a. Government

c. President

f. Other (specify)

Comments: f.) One or more members of the Lower House.
Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:25:59 UTC

DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:42:50 UTC

DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?

f. Other (specify who)

Comments: f.)It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution it was the Legislature.
Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:43:08 UTC

DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:43:32 UTC

DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?

e. Other (specify)

Comments: e.)It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution it was the Legislature.
Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:43:51 UTC

DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:44:16 UTC

DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?

e. Other (specify who)

Comments: e.)It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution it was the Legislature.
Last updated: 2005-08-19 14:44:35 UTC

DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.

d. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:06:59 UTC

DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.

Comments: It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution there is no official quorom required, but many political parties have said to follow the result if a certain quorom is achieved. This quorom differs per party.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:09:51 UTC

DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:10:27 UTC

DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?

d. Other (specify below)

Comments: d.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution a simply majority is required.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:11:58 UTC

DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.

f. Other

Comments: f.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law. For the referendum on the European Constitution the regulatory provisions stated above do not differ.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:13:45 UTC

DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:15:43 UTC

DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?

c. Never

Comments: The outcome of the referendum can never be binding. This would be a violation of the statutory regulations in the Dutch Constitution.
Source: Article 81 of the Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:23:40 UTC

DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?

d. Not applicable

Comments: None at the moment.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:28:52 UTC

DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?

l. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:36:02 UTC

DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?

l. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:36:15 UTC

DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the “Comments” section below.

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:36:28 UTC

DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the “Comments” section below.

a. A number of individuals

Comments: a) Agenda initiatives can be introduced by gathering 40,000 signatures supporting the initiative.
Source: B.H. van Houten, Legal Adviser, Information Point for Elections
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:37:12 UTC

DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?

a. Proponents of the initiative

Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?

h. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:37:47 UTC

DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:39:45 UTC

DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:39:59 UTC

DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:40:38 UTC

DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:40:53 UTC

DD60 At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:41:10 UTC

DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:41:31 UTC

DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:42:04 UTC

DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:42:23 UTC

DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 12:42:42 UTC

DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?

k. Not applicable

Comments: There is no act in force for a recall.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:00:41 UTC

DD66 What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:05:29 UTC

DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?

b. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:05:47 UTC

DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:12:42 UTC

DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:13:02 UTC

DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?

b. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:13:25 UTC

DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:13:40 UTC

DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

d. Other (specify) X

Comments: Under the Temporary Referendum Act (Tijdelijke referefdumwet, abbreviated Trw) 600 000 signatures were needed before a referendum could be held.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:34:10 UTC

DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

d. Other (specify) X

Comments: Under the Temporary Referendum Act (Tijdelijke referefdumwet, abbreviated Trw) 600 000 signatures were needed before a referendum could be held.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:35:15 UTC

DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Comments: The initiative to start the direct democracy mechanism at national level can not come from citizens.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:37:59 UTC

DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

a. Fixed number X

Comments: Agenda initiatives can be introduced by gathering 40,000 signatures supporting the initiative.
Source: B.H. van Houten, Legal Adviser, Information Point for Elections
Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?

b. Other (specify)

Comments: b.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:08:06 UTC

DD77 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?

b. Other (specify)

Comments: b.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:08:24 UTC

DD78 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:53:42 UTC

DD79 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?

b. Other (specify)

Last updated: 2007-01-23 14:13:56 UTC

DD80 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

c. Other (specify)

Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:09:31 UTC

DD81 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?

c. Other (specify)

Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:09:50 UTC

DD82 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:57:23 UTC

DD84 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:58:57 UTC

DD85 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?

c. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 13:59:15 UTC

DD87 Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?

f. Other (specify)

Comments: f.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:12:06 UTC

DD88 Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?

f. Other (specify)

Comments: f.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:11:51 UTC

DD89 Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:01:04 UTC

DD90 Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:01:23 UTC

DD91 Where can proposals for a recall be signed?

g. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:01:38 UTC

DD92 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

c. Other (specify)

Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:13:08 UTC

DD93 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?

c. Other (specify)

Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:13:29 UTC

DD94 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:03:01 UTC

DD96 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:03:31 UTC

DD97 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

e. Other (specify)

Comments: e.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:14:45 UTC

DD98 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?

e. Other (specify)

Comments: e.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:15:11 UTC

DD99 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-09-06 14:15:31 UTC

Electoral Management

EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:

a. Name of Institution Kiesraad (Electoral Council)
b. Full Address Kiesraad, Postbox 20011, 2500 EA, The Hague The Netherlands
c. Telephone +31- 70- 426 6266
e. Email kiesraad(a)minbzk.nl
f. Website Address www.kiesraad.nl
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Mr F.J.W.M. van Dooren
h. Information Officer Ms Christa de Beus (Deputy Secretary)
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Dutch

Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:41:46 GMT

EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:

a. National level

Comments: The municipal authorities (not the Electoral Council) are responsible for the organisation of all elections in their municipality. The Electoral Council acts as central polling station for national elections.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.E, Section 3-11.
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:39:46 GMT

EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:

c. The legislature

Comments: c.)The Electoral Council is an advising council for the government and Parliament on practical matters relating to elections or questions of franchise, and it acts as central polling station for national elections and for European Parliament elections. The municipal authorities (not the Electoral Council) are responsible for the organisation of the elections in their municipality. Acting as central polling station, the Electoral Council sends the official report of the results to the Chamber of Parliament for which the elections take place.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:40:49 GMT

EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:

c. The legislature

Comments: The budget of the Electoral Council is determined by the legislature, as a part of the national budget. The municipal authorities (not the Electoral Council) are responsible for the organisation of the elections in their municipality.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:41:58 GMT

EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:

d. A national government department

Comments: The Electoral Council is an advisory body and the central polling station for national elections. The elections are organised by local authorities, that also controls the expenditures.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:43:19 GMT

EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:

b. For a term of _________ years

Comments: b.) For a term of 4 years (a prolongation of 4 years is allowed)
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.E, Section 8. Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:42:44 GMT

EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:

e. Governmental appointment

Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:50:44 GMT

EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?

Comments: No figures are available for the national level, and the local authorities determine most of the budget for elections.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01. Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Wed, 08 May 2002 14:37:06 GMT

EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?

a. Total number: 12000000

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:46:24 GMT

EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?

Comments: No figures available since the registration of voters is decentralised and part of the municipal population registrations (GBA).
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:47:14 GMT

EM11 What are the approximate proportions (%) of total election expenditure for the last national elections devoted to the following?

Comments: Local authorities finance the elections,national figures are not available.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:47:54 GMT

Electoral Systems

ES01 How is the Head of State selected?

g. Inherited monarchy

Source: Constitution, Ch.2,Art.24.
Last updated: Fri, 24 May 2002 12:25:09 GMT

ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?

d. Leader of the party which forms the government becomes Head of Government

Comments: The Queen appoints the Head of Government,before the selection the Queen pronounces an advisor to inform her about the possibilities.
Source: Constitution, Ch.2,Art.43.
Last updated: Fri, 24 May 2002 12:25:44 GMT

ES03 Does the country have a president?

b. No

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Mon, 08 Jul 2002 10:00:25 GMT

ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):

b. Two chambers

Source: Constitution, Ch.2, Art.53 and 55.
Last updated: Mon, 08 Jul 2002 09:55:51 GMT

ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?

g. List Proportional Representation

Comments: Preferential vote for individual candidate on party list.
Source: Constitution, Ch.2, Art.53.
Last updated: Fri, 24 May 2002 12:30:45 GMT

ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?

l. Other

Comments: Elected by the members of the twelve provincial councils. Preferential vote for individual candidate on party list.
Source: Constitution, Ch.2, Art.53 and 55.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:02:04 GMT

ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?

a. d'Hondt Formula

Comments: Seats are distributed at the national level among different lists or groups of lists which have obtained at least 0.67% of the nationwide vote, each being awarded as many seats as the number of times the votes for its candidates is the multiple of an established national quota (the total of valid votes in the country divided by the number of seats (150) to be filled). Within each list, seats are then allocated among candidates according to the order in which they appear on the list. The seats remaining unfilled after this first distribution are then allotted according to the d'Hondt method of highest average.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 14:49:53 GMT

ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?

a. National level

Comments: Seats are distributed at national level, the distribution of party seats to individual candidates is based on electoral district lists.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:46:56 GMT

ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?

a. National level

Comments: Members of the Upper House are elected by the members of all provincial assemblies. The votes are weighed according to the number of citizens represented by the provincial assemblies (devide the provincial population by the number of seats in the provincial assembly).
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:50:07 GMT

ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?

b. No

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:50:45 GMT

ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:

e. Not applicable Na

Comments: There are no special constituencies or seats reserved in the Lower House.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:52:32 GMT

ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?

b. No

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:53:09 GMT

ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:

e. Not applicable Na

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:15:42 GMT

ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?

a. No minimum

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:16:39 GMT

ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?

a. No minimum

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:17:43 GMT

ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?

a. No minimum

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:18:29 GMT

ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?

a. No minimum

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:20:46 GMT

ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)

c. On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)

Comments: a.) Standard: Every 4 years b.) The constitution provides for the dissolution of the Lower and Upper House before the end of its normal term, which is 4 years. Elections can then be called by the Monarch on the request of the Head of Government. c.)On a Wednesday
Source: Constitution, Art.51 and 64 Elections Act, Ch. 1, Section 1
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:21:37 GMT

ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)

c. On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)

Comments: a.) Standard: Every 4 years b.) The constitution provides for the dissolution of the Lower and Upper House before the end of its normal term, which is 4 years. Elections can then be called by the Monarch on the request of the Head of Government. c.)On a Wednesday
Source: Constitution, Art.51 and 64.
Last updated: Fri, 24 May 2002 13:00:31 GMT

ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):

a. Voting takes place on one day

Comments: a.) On a Wednesday
Source: Elections Act, Ch.J, Section 1.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:23:00 GMT

ES21 Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):

a. Voting takes place on one day

Comments: a) On a Wednesday
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:22:46 GMT

Legislative Framework

LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?

a. Part of Constitution

b. Separate legislation

c. Decree

Comments: a) General principles in Constitution b) and c) Detailed regulations in Elections Act and Elections Decree.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?

a. January 2000 or later

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl Mr. Gerard Boon, Legal Adviser, Constitutional and Legislative Division, Ministry of the Interior and kingdom Relations, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl.
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF03 The national electoral law covers:

a. National elections

b. Regional elections

c. Local elections

d. Referendums

e. Other

Comments: e) EU parliamentary elections
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:29:43 GMT

LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?

a. Voting is voluntary

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?

a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections

Comments: From 1/1/2002 it is possible to hold referendums on the same day as national elections.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Mon, 04 Feb 2002 15:18:24 GMT

LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?

c. Not applicable

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Thu, 19 Jul 2001 14:00:53 GMT

LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?

a. Judiciary

b. EMB

d. Other

Comments: a) The Judiciary is responsible for disputes on registration of political parties, public funding or submission of lists of candidates. b) and d) The Election Council and the Chamber of Parliament are responsible for disputes on counting of ballots
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?

h. Not applicable

Comments: The agency(ies) which settles formal disputes are not specially appointed/elected.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?

a. Candidates

b. Parties

c. Voters

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:36:45 GMT

LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?

c. Superior Court

f. Other

Comments: c) Administrative Law Division of the Council of States is responsible for disputes on registration of political parties, public funding or submission of lists of candidates. f) The Chamber of Parliament is responsible for disputes on counting of the ballots.
Source: Elections Act, Ch.I, Section 7. Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

LF11 Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?

c. Government

f. Other

Comments: e) Lower House itself. Electoral Council may advise the Government and/or the Parliament.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: 2006-11-21 20:08:52 UTC

Media and Elections

ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.

a. Name and Title: Hans Ottenhoff
b. Job Title: Policymaker
c. Organisation: Commissariaat voor de Media
d. Contact Address: Hoge Naarderweg 78 IIII 1217 AH Hilversum III
e. Telephone: 035 7737761
f. Facsimile: 035 7737799
g. Email: [email protected]

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:22:05 UTC

ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster? Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?

a. Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance

Source: Hans Ottenhoff, Policymaker, Commissariaat voor de Media
Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:22:05 UTC

ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?

b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X

Comments: The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising
Source: Hans Ottenhoff, Policymaker, Commissariaat voor de Media
Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:22:05 UTC

ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?

a. Yes, in presidential elections

Comments: The broadcasters themselves determine the way they cover the campaigns of the elections and which debates they will organize and who they will invite. This programmatic freedom is guaranteed in Section 7 of Constitution and Section 48 Media Act.
Source: Hans Ottenhoff, Policymaker, Commissariaat voor de Media
Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:22:05 UTC

ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?

Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:20:40 UTC

ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?

g. Not applicable

Source: Hans Ottenhoff, Policymaker, Commissariaat voor de Media
Last updated: 2007-01-09 13:22:05 UTC

Parties and Candidates

PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?

a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)

b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)

f. Other

Comments: a) 30 signatures per list of candidates submitted (a party may submit a list in only one or more electoral districts). b)A deposit of euro 450 for registration (refundable if the party submits a list); a deposit of euro 11,250 for each list of candidates (refundable if the party obtains at least 75 % of the electoral quota). f) The party must be an association with full legal capacity. Requirements for new political parties only (= parties that did not obtain at least one seat in the last elections).
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.H, Section 4 and 12, Ch.G, Section 1.
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:11:12 GMT

PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?

a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)

b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)

f. Other

Comments: a) 1 signature of a member of a provincial council per list submitted. b) A deposit of euro 450 for registration (refundable if party submits a list). f) The party must be an association with full legal capacity. Requirements only for new political parties only (= parties that did not obtain at least one seat in the last elections; a party registered for Chamber 1 elections does not need separate registration for Chamber 2 elections).
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:12:35 GMT

PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?

a. Age

b. Citizenship

Comments: a.) 18 years
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 15:00:08 GMT

PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?

a. Age

b. Citizenship

Comments: a.) 18 years.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 15:00:31 GMT

PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?

k. Not applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:14:21 GMT

PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?

a. Current criminal incarceration

g. Holding of government office

k. Mental health problems

Comments: a.)Only a limited number of offences, and then only cases where a custodial sentence of at least one year is imposed, may lead to disqualification. g.)A member of the parliament may not be a Minister, State Secretary, member of the Council of States, member of the general Chamber of Audit, member of the Supreme Court, or Procurator General or Advocate General at the Supreme Court. k.)Persons who have been deprived by a court of the right to vote or who have been declared mentally unfit by a court to manage their own affairs are disqualified from voting and from standing as candidates.
Source: Constitution,Ch. 3,Art.54 and 57. Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 15:03:32 GMT

PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?

o. Not applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:16:07 GMT

PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?

c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)

d. In legislative elections (Chamber 2)

Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Mon, 04 Feb 2002 17:08:50 GMT

PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?

a. Signature requirement (specify)

b. Deposit requirement (specify)

Comments: a) 30 signatures per list of candidates submitted b) a deposit of euro 11,250 for each list of candidates (refundable if it obtains at least 75% of the electoral quota.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Tue, 28 May 2002 15:04:36 GMT

PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?

a. Signature requirement (specify)

Comments: a) 1 signature of a member of a provincial council per list submitted.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Mon, 04 Feb 2002 17:14:36 GMT

PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?

e. Not Applicable

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 13:15:15 GMT

PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?

b. Direct

c. Indirect

Comments: c) Financial support to research institutes of political parties and youth organisations of political parties and free media access.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:17:44 GMT

PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?

c. As related to the election period and between elections

Comments: Public funding on a yearly basis and free media access also during the election period.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:19:07 GMT

PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:

a. Free media access

d. Other

Comments: d) Financial support of research institutes of political parties, youth organisations of political parties.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:20:40 GMT

PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?

c. Based on current legislative representation

Comments: Free media access in election periods also for new political parties (and independent candidates) that have submitted a list of candidates.
Source: Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:23:20 GMT

PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?

d. Other

Comments: d.) Financial support for research institutes of political parties, education and information for members, etc.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:25:17 GMT

PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?

a. Yes

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:25:57 GMT

PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?

c. As related to the election period and between elections

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:26:41 GMT

PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?

a. Public disclosure of party contributions received

b. Public disclosure of party expenditure

h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:27:35 GMT

PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?

j. Not applicable

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:28:12 GMT

PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?

c. Government department

Comments: c) Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Every year the parties need to submit a plan of activities for which they want public funding, afterwards they have to report how they have spent the financial support.
Source: Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:25:08 GMT

Vote Counting

VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?

a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)

d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)

e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)

g. Different ballots used in different constituencies

l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official

p. Bilingual

r. Other

Comments: p.) In one electoral district/constituency the official language and an official regional dialect is used. r.) Parties represented in Parliament are listed according to the number of seats held in descending order. Other parties are placed randomly.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:07:24 GMT

VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?

a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)

d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)

e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)

g. Different ballots used in different constituencies

l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official

r. Other

Comments: Same ballots as for Lower House. p.) In one electoral district/constituency the official language and an official regional dialect is used. r.) Parties represented in Parliament are listed according to the number of seats held in descending order. Other parties are placed randomly.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Mon, 23 Jul 2001 10:46:59 GMT

VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?

s. Not Applicable

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:11:27 GMT

VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?

a. At the polling stations

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:46:30 GMT

VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?

b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box

c. Tally of voters who voted

d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters

e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)

j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate

k. Counted by machine

l. Counted by hand

o. Data fed into computer for calculation

p. Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Mon, 13 May 2002 13:19:39 GMT

VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?

b. Sub-district level

Comments: Each municipality has it's own responsibility for the results.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 07:38:42 GMT

VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?

d. National level

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 14:57:11 GMT

VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?

a. Physically transported

Comments: Results are communicated to the press by phone and fax.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 14:58:09 GMT

VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?

a. Ballots

b. Unused and spoiled ballots

d. Voter rolls

e. Tendered ballots

f. Certificate of result

Comments: All materials are kept at the local level, only the certificate of results goes on to higher levels.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 14:59:13 GMT

VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?

c. Signatures on sealed envelopes

e. Accompanied by election officials

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 15:00:10 GMT

VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?

d. By request

Comments: Only when there is a suspicion of fraud.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.P, Section 21.
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 15:00:57 GMT

VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?

e. Not applicable

Comments: The ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 15:02:44 GMT

VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?

a. Political parties

b. An individual candidate

c. Election officials

f. Other

Comments: f.) The Election Organs themselves or Parliament.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 15:04:20 GMT

VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?

a. National Election Management body

Comments: a.) Central Electoral Committée.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.P, Section 21.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:37:13 GMT

VC15 Are preliminary results announced?

a. Yes

Comments: The media tabulate preliminary results from the information they get from local authorities. The EMB only announces final results.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:33:02 GMT

VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?

a. hours: 2

Comments: The media tabulate preliminary results from the information they get from local authorities. The EMB only announces final results.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:33:53 GMT

VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?

b. No

Comments: No time frame given, results are to be published as soon as possible.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.P, Section 20.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:38:12 GMT

VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)

b. days:

Comments: b) 2 days.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 15:05:14 GMT

Voter Education

VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?

d. National Government

f. Local Governments

g. NGOs/ Civic Organizations

h. Political parties/ candidates

i. Media

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:59:16 GMT

VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?

b. Election time only

Comments: b.) information only, no education
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 11:47:38 GMT

VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?

a. No

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:02:31 GMT

VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?

a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns

b. Media advertisement

c. Simulation exercises

e. Public meetings

f. Mail-outs

g. Internet

Comments: Simulation exercises on the internet for electronic voting machines.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:01:11 GMT

VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?

a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns

b. Media advertisement

h. Handouts (printed material)

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:00:25 GMT

VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:

g. Other

Comments: g.)Seminars for refugees/naturalised citizens only, informing about the electoral and political system.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:59:55 GMT

Voting Operations

VO01 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?

a. 91-100%

Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Last updated: Mon, 04 Feb 2002 17:36:57 GMT

VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?

b. No

Comments: Guidelines exist at the local level, but there is no central code of conduct.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:30:01 GMT

VO03 Where can electors vote?

a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections

f. By mail

h. By proxy

Comments: Voters usually vote at specified polling stations in their neighbourhood. However, they can apply to get a special voter's card that allows voting in the entire country (for national elections). f)Postal voting only for voters living abroad or temporarily staying abroad because of work/occupation. h) Person lawfully deprived of their liberty on polling day
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.B Section 6, Ch.J Section 5, Ch.M Section 1-3. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:37:15 GMT

VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?

b. Citizens residing outside the country

Comments: As citizens residing outside the country are not registered in the civil registry, they need to register at the Electoral Authorities to be able to vote.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:38:34 GMT

VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?

a. Embassies

e. By mail

Comments: Voting is possible only at some Embassies, not all of them.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.M, Section 13-17.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:31:55 GMT

VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?

a. No

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:40:21 GMT

VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?

f. Not applicable

Comments: People can not vote in advance.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 14:02:03 GMT

VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:

g. Not applicable

Comments: Electors can not vote in advance.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 14:00:31 GMT

VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?

b. No

Comments: Local authorities decide about the location and size of the polling station.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:44:12 GMT

VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?

b. No Na

Comments: Not applicable
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:44:52 GMT

VO11 How do electors cast their votes?

a. By manually marking the ballot

d. By electronic voting machine

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 13:45:26 GMT

VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?

a. The smallest polling station: 3

Comments: The minimum of staff per polling station is 3 persons.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:00:23 GMT

VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?

a. hours: 1

Comments: Polling officials are volonteers, written information and instructions are distributed, but there is no formal training.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 14:01:53 GMT

VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?

a. hours: 0.5

Comments: Polling officials are volonteers, written information and instructions are distributed, but there is no formal training.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Mon, 13 May 2002 08:59:57 GMT

Voter Registration

VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?

c. 18

Comments: 18 years
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.54. Elections Act (1989),Ch.B, Section 1.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:52:31 GMT

VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?

a. Citizenship

Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.54. Elections Act (1989), Ch.B, Section 1.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:53:41 GMT

VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?

b. Previous Conviction

d. Mental disability

Comments: b.)Only a limited number of offences, and then only cases where a custodial sentence of at least one year is imposed, may lead to disqualification. d.)Persons who have been deprived by a court of the right to vote or who have been declared mentally unfit by a court to manage their own affairs are disqualified from voting and from standing as candidates.
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.55. Elections Act (1989), Ch.B, Section 5.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:54:34 GMT

VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?

c. Local Government Authority

Comments: The electoral roll is kept by the municipal executive. As a rule, registration is permanent as a part of the municipal population register (known as 'GBA')
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.D, Section 1-3.
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 13:55:28 GMT

VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?

a. National citizens register

Comments: The electoral roll is kept by the municipal executive. As a rule, registration is permanent as a part of the municipal population register (known as GBA).
Source: Electoral Act, Ch.D, Section 1-3a. Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:56:18 GMT

VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?

a. Continuously

Comments: As a rule, registration is permanent as a part of the municipal population register (known as GBA).
Source: Electoral Act, Ch.D, Section 1-3a. Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Mon, 27 May 2002 14:08:27 GMT

VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?

a. Links to national population records

Comments: As a rule, registration is permanent as a part of the municipal population register (known as GBA).
Source: Elections Act (1989), Ch.D, Section 1-3 Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:57:19 GMT

VR08 Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?

a. Yes

Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 12:58:03 GMT

VR09 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of registration supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?

a. Percentage: 95%

Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Last updated: Fri, 20 Jul 2001 09:49:25 GMT

May 20, 2008 08:19 AM

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