Info
Disclaimer: This section of Comparative Data is not being updated.
Users should be aware that data may be inaccurate. If you find inaccuracies please
contact the ACE facilitators .
Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: "There are no parliamentary constituencies within the country because the entire country is itself one large constituency. For party-political and administrative purposes, however, the country has been divided into nineteen [now, twenty] parliamentary regions (kiekringen), each covering a province or part of a province. Each region has its own election committee. Furthermore, there is a central election committee for all elections."
1. For elections to the House of Representatives, the Netherlands shall be divided into electoral districts in accordance with the table appended to this Act.
2. In the European part of the Netherlands, the electoral districts for elections to the House of Representatives shall also form the electoral districts for elections to the provincial councils. Provincial councils may divide these electoral districts into more electoral districts for an election of their members.
3. For elections to municipal councils, each municipality shall form a single electoral district.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. E1.
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: Elections Act
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. E1.
Verified: 2016/03/03
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: The Table referred to in Section E1 of the Elections Act takes the number of the electoral district, the area covered by the electoral district, and the municipality where the principal electoral committee is situated into account.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. E, Section E1 and accompanying table.
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2017/03/21
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/03/03
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The Elections Act, which was signed by the State Secretary of the Interior and the Minister of Justice, is the legislation that determines the electoral districts.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. E, Section E1;
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2017/03/21
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2022/08/02
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
g . Inherited monarchy
Comments: Article 24: "The title to the Throne shall be hereditary and shall vest in the legitimate descendants of King William I, Prince of Orange-Nassau."
Source: Constitution of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Article. 24: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Netherlands_2008?lang=en
Verified: 2022/08/02
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: Article 43: "The Prime Minister and the other Ministers shall be appointed and dismissed by Royal Decree."
Source: Constitution of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Netherlands_2008?lang=en
Verified: 2022/08/02
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Art. 24; 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Netherlands_2008?lang=en
Verified: 2022/08/02
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: Article 51(1): "The States General shall consist of a Lower House (Tweede Kamer) and an Upper House (Eerste Kamer)."
Source: Constitution of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Art. 51: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Netherlands_2008?lang=en
Verified: 2022/08/02
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
g . List Proportional Representation
Comments: Article 53(1): "The members of both Houses shall be elected by proportional representation within the limits to be laid down by Act of Parliament."
Source: Constitution of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Art. 53(1): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Netherlands_2008?lang=en
Verified: 2022/08/02
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2016/03/03
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2016/03/03
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments: "1. The central electoral committee shall divide the sum of the total votes cast for all the lists
by the number of seats to be allocated.
2. The quotient thus obtained shall be known as the electoral quota.
A seat shall be awarded to a list as many times as the total vote for that list contains the
electoral quota."
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), sec. P5 & P6: file:///C:/Users/jmansour/Downloads/pdf-voor-engelse-site-elections-act-2010%20(1).pdf
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Not mentioned in Constitution or Elections Act
Source:
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Not mentioned in Constitution or Elections Act
Source:
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
b . Specify the percentage:
Comments: "1. If the number of seats to be allocated is nineteen or more, the remaining seats, known as
residual seats, shall be awarded sequentially to the lists which, after the award of the seat,
have the highest average number of votes per seat awarded. If averages are the same, the
matter shall be decided by lot.
2. If the election is to the House of Representatives, lists with a total vote lower than the
electoral quota shall not be eligible for seats awarded in this way.
1. If the number of seats to be allocated is fewer than nineteen, the residual seats shall be
awarded sequentially to the lists whose total votes have the largest remainder when divided
by the electoral quota. Lists which have no remainder shall be deemed for this purpose to
be the lists with the smallest remainder. If remainders are the same, the matter shall be
decided by lot.
2. Lists with a total vote lower than 75% of the electoral quota shall not be eligible for seats
awarded in this way."
Source: Elections Act, sec. P7 & P8: file:///C:/Users/jmansour/Downloads/pdf-voor-engelse-site-elections-act-2010%20(1).pdf
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
b . Specify the percentage:
Comments: "1. If the number of seats to be allocated is nineteen or more, the remaining seats, known as
residual seats, shall be awarded sequentially to the lists which, after the award of the seat,
have the highest average number of votes per seat awarded. If averages are the same, the
matter shall be decided by lot.
2. If the election is to the House of Representatives, lists with a total vote lower than the
electoral quota shall not be eligible for seats awarded in this way.
1. If the number of seats to be allocated is fewer than nineteen, the residual seats shall be
awarded sequentially to the lists whose total votes have the largest remainder when divided
by the electoral quota. Lists which have no remainder shall be deemed for this purpose to
be the lists with the smallest remainder. If remainders are the same, the matter shall be
decided by lot.
2. Lists with a total vote lower than 75% of the electoral quota shall not be eligible for seats
awarded in this way."
Source: Elections Act, sec. P7 & P8: file:///C:/Users/jmansour/Downloads/pdf-voor-engelse-site-elections-act-2010%20(1).pdf
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: The duration of both Chambers shall be four years
Each of the Chambers may be dissolved by Royal Decree ... The duration of a Second Chamber that meets following a dissolution shall be determined by Act of Parliament; the term may not exceed five years. The duration of a First Chamber that meets following a dissolution shall end at the time at which the duration of the dissolved Chamber would have ended.
Source: Constitution, Art. 52(1) and 64(1, 4): http://www.servat.unibe.ch/icl/nl00000_.html
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: The duration of both Chambers shall be four years
Each of the Chambers may be dissolved by Royal Decree ... The duration of a Second Chamber that meets following a dissolution shall be determined by Act of Parliament; the term may not exceed five years. The duration of a First Chamber that meets following a dissolution shall end at the time at which the duration of the dissolved Chamber would have ended.
Source: Constitution, Art. 52(1) and 64(1, 4): http://www.servat.unibe.ch/icl/nl00000_.html
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: Voting shall take place on the forty-third day after nomination day
Source: Elections Act, Ch.J1(1): file:///C:/Users/jmansour/Downloads/pdf-voor-engelse-site-elections-act-2010%20(1).pdf
Verified: 2016/03/04
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: Voting shall take place on the forty-third day after nomination day
Source: Elections Act, Ch.J1(1): file:///C:/Users/jmansour/Downloads/pdf-voor-engelse-site-elections-act-2010%20(1).pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: The Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 2018 <https://www.government.nl/binaries/government/documenten/reports/2019/02/28/the-constitution-of-the-kingdom-of-the-netherlands/WEB_119406_Grondwet_Koninkrijk_ENG.pdf> and
Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act) <http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf>
Verified: 2022/08/02
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Last amended by Act of 29 October 2009, Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2009, no. 452
Source: Elections Act: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/netherlands-elections-act-2010/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections b . Regional elections c . Local elections e . Other
Comments: Also EU parliamentary elections
Source: The Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 2018 <https://www.government.nl/binaries/government/documenten/reports/2019/02/28/the-constitution-of-the-kingdom-of-the-netherlands/WEB_119406_Grondwet_Koninkrijk_ENG.pdf> and
Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act) <http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf>
Verified: 2022/08/02
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Members of the House of Representatives of the States General shall be elected by persons who are Dutch nationals on nomination day and have attained the age of eighteen years on polling day, with the exception of persons who have their actual place of residence in the Netherlands Antilles or Aruba on nomination day.
The members of the Second Chamber shall be elected directly by the Dutch nationals who have attained the age of eighteen, with the exception of any Dutch nationals who may be excluded by Act of Parliament by virtue of the fact that they are not resident in the Netherlands.
Source: The Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 2018, Article 54(1) <https://www.government.nl/binaries/government/documenten/reports/2019/02/28/the-constitution-of-the-kingdom-of-the-netherlands/WEB_119406_Grondwet_Koninkrijk_ENG.pdf> and
Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. B, Section B1 <http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf>
Verified: 2022/08/02
LF005
Question: 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?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2016/03/04
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Verified: 2016/03/04
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary b . EMB
Comments: Complaints can be submitted to the electoral or administrative body dealing with relevant issues. The Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State (Court) reviews appeals related to voter registration, registration of party names and candidate registration. Except for appeals in candidate registration cases (six days), there are no special expedited deadlines for resolving election-related appeals and, in line with general administrative procedures, they are to be decided within a period of six weeks.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (9).
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The agency(ies) which settles formal disputes are not specially appointed/elected.
Source: OSCE/ODHIR 2012 Asssessment Mission Report, ch. IX: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters
Comments: Any interested party or any voter may appeal against a decision as referred to in section I 4 to the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State.
Complaints on voter registration and registration of political groupings or candidates can be submitted to the electoral or administrative body dealing with those issues. However, the Act does not provide the possibility to file formal complaints with the electoral administration on other issues. Instead, individuals attending meetings of different levels of the election administration can make oral objections. Voters present in polling stations may also register objections, which are included in the official report.
Source: Elections Act: Ch. I, Section I7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/netherlands-elections-act-2010/at_download/file
OSCE/ODHIR 2012 Asssessment Mission Report, ch. IX: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: Complaints on voter registration and registration of political groupings or candidates can be submitted to the electoral or administrative body dealing with those issues. However, the Act does not provide the possibility to file formal complaints with the electoral administration on other issues. Instead, individuals attending meetings of different levels of the election administration can make oral objections. Voters present in polling stations may also register objections, which are included in the official report.
Source: OSCE/ODHIR 2012 Asssessment Mission Report, ch. IX: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2022/08/02
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: d) Elections to the European Parliament
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. E, Section E11 (2); Ch. S, Section S1 (1); Ch. Y, Section 9 (1)
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: "The Electoral Council is subject to chapter IIb of the national budget, which is managed by the High
Councils of State."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (7)
https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: "The ministry of BZK [the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations] supervises all independent administrative bodies which perform tasks for which the minister shoulders political responsibility."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (7)
https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: Section E8: The appointments referred to in sections E 5, E 6 and E 7 shall last for a term of four calendar years. A person who has been appointed to fill a casual vacancy shall retire on the date on which the person in whose place he was appointed would have had to retire.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): E5-E8
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
e . Governmental appointment
Comments:
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations,
Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Verified: 2002/05/27
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: The Electoral Council has become increasingly independent since its foundation. "The ministry of BZK supervises all independent administrative bodies which perform tasks for which the minister shoulders political responsibility. The special position of the Electoral Council and the associated independence required affect this supervisory relationship. As a central electoral committee, the Electoral Council falls under the aegis of the Framework Act for Non-departmental Public Bodies."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (7): https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Official Website of the Electoral Council: https://english.kiesraad.nl/about-us/history-of-the-electoral-council
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: 7 members
Section A2(3): The Electoral Council shall comprise seven members.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): E5-E8
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: "Appointments are made on the basis of expertise in the area of electoral law and elections and on related or relevant areas of policy. Social knowledge and experience also play a role in the appointment of members."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (7): https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Verified: 2022/08/02
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State
Comments: The Electoral Council consists of seven members. These members are appointed by Royal Decree for a period of four years, and can be reappointed twice. They are appointed on the basis of their expertise in giving advice on the Election Law and elections.
Source: Official Website of the Electoral Council: https://english.kiesraad.nl/about-us
Verified: 2022/08/02
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body b . Regional Electoral Management Bodies c . Local/County Electoral Management Bodies d . National Government f . Local Governments
Comments: The election management bodies also indicated that they are occupied with...preparing comprehensive and user-friendly voter education campaign on new voting modalities (1). The MoIKR and municipalities will be launching various types of voter information... (4).
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (1,4).
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: "Throughout the year, the Electoral Council acts as an information and knowledge point concerning voting rights and elections for municipalities, provincial courts, political parties, voters and the media. At the time of elections, an Electoral Information Point is set up together with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK)."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (6)
https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Verified: 2022/08/02
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body e . Yes, conducted by the Government
Comments: "Throughout the year, the Electoral Council acts as an information and knowledge point concerning voting rights and elections for municipalities, provincial courts, political parties, voters and the media. At the time of elections, an Electoral Information Point is set up together with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK)."
Source: Annual Report Electoral Council 2020 (6)
https://english.kiesraad.nl/publications/annual-reports/2021/03/16/index
Verified: 2022/08/02
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement h . Handouts (printed material)
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Mr. Gerard Boon
Verified: 2002/06/18
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2022/08/02
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B1(1)
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence
Comments: Section B1: 1) Members of the House of Representatives of the States General shall be elected by persons who are Dutch nationals on nomination day and have attained the age of eighteen years on polling day, with the exception of persons who have their actual place of residence in Aruba, Curaçao or St Maarten on nomination day. 2) This exception shall not apply to: (a) Dutch nationals who have been resident in the Netherlands for at least ten years; (b) Dutch nationals who are employed in the Dutch public service in Aruba, Curaçao or St Maarten and their Dutch spouses or partners and children, in so far as they have joint households.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B1(1)
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
b . Previous Conviction
Comments: The legislation grants the right to vote in parliamentary elections to citizens over the age of 18, unless they have been deprived of their voting rights as a result of serving a criminal conviction. In particular, people convicted of certain felonies and sentenced to a term of over one year can have voting rights temporarily suspended upon a court’s decision.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Needs Assessment Report, sec. C: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
c . Local Government Authority
Comments: Section D1(1): The municipal executive shall register the franchise of the residents of the municipality in the municipal records.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Needs Assessment Report, sec. C: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2022/08/02
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
a . National citizens register
Comments: Municipal authorities are responsible for maintaining voter registers, which are based on information drawn from the population register.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Needs Assessment Report, sec. B: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: The list of eligible voters is automatically extracted and constantly updated.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Needs Assessment Report, sec. B: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
a . Links to national population records
Comments: Municipal authorities are responsible for maintaining voter registers, which are based on information drawn from the population register.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Needs Assessment Report, sec. B: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/17
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Voter registration is passive and based on extracts of the unified population register maintained by municipalities.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (5);
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B1(1)
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) b . Deposit requirement (specify amount) f . Other
Comments: Registration of contestants occurs in two stages beginning with the registration of names of contesting political parties with the Electoral Council (EC). Applications with the grouping name and a deposit of EUR 450 must be submitted. Once a contestant has been approved by the EC, candidate lists can be registered along with a deposit of EUR 11,250 paid to the EC and written consent from all the candidates (OSCE 6-7). A list shall be accompanied by written declarations of support for the list from voters, listing the candidates in the same way and in the same order as on the list. In the case of an election to the House of Representatives or to a provincial or municipal council with at least 39 seats to be filled, the minimum number of declarations of support shall be 30; in the case of an election to a municipal council with fewer than 39 but more than 19 seats to be filled, the minimum number of declarations of support shall be 20, and in the case of an election to a municipal council with fewer than 19 seats to be filled the minimum number of declarations of support to be submitted shall be 10 (Section H4(1)).
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (6-7);
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): Ch. H, Ch. G.
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: Article 56: To be eligible for membership of the States General, a person must be a Dutch national, must have attained the age of eighteen years and must not have been disqualified from voting.
Source: The Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 2018, Article 56.
https://www.government.nl/documents/reports/2019/02/28/the-constitution-of-the-kingdom-of-the-netherlands
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: To be eligible for membership of the Parliament, a person must be a Dutch national, must have attained the age of eighteen years and must not have been disqualified from voting.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations
Constitutional Affairs and Legislation Department, The Netherlands, gerard.boon(a)minbzk.nl
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration g . Holding of government office k . Mental health problems
Comments: To be eligible for membership of the Parliament, a person must be a Dutch national, must have attained the age of eighteen years and must not have been disqualified from voting.
The following persons shall not be entitled to vote:
(a) anyone who has committed an offence designated by Act of Parliament and has been sentenced as a result by irrevocable judgement of a court of law to a custodial sentence of not less than one year and simultaneously disqualified from voting;
(b) anyone who has been deemed legally incompetent by irrevocable judgement of a court because of mental disorder.
A member of the Parliament may not be a Minister, State Secretary, member of the Council of State, member of the General Chamber of Audit, member of the Supreme Court, or Procurator General or Advocate General at the Supreme Court.
(3) Notwithstanding the above, a Minister or State Secretary who has offered to tender his resignation may combine the said office with membership of the Parliament until such time as a decision is taken on such resignation.
(4) Other public functions which may not be held simultaneously by a person who is a member of the Parliament or of one of the Chambers may be designated by Act ofParliament.
Source: Constitution, Chapter 3,Art.54, 56, and 57: http://www.servat.unibe.ch/icl/nl00000_.html
Verified: 2002/05/28
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1) d . In legislative elections (Chamber 2)
Comments: Non-registered political groups and individuals can also compete as so-called ‘blank lists’.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (8);
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2002/05/28
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: a) 1 signature of a member of a provincial council per list submitted.
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Verified: 2002/02/04
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/20
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: The 2013 Political Finance Act provides for a mixed political finance system, including both public and private financing.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (8);
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access d . Other
Comments: Political parties running in all electoral districts were considered eligible to receive airtime on public broadcasters. In order to facilitate their access to public media, the Media Authority in agreement with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and the MoIKR granted free airtime to all parties that registered lists in 19 mainland districts,
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Electoral Assessment Mission Report: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
c . Based on current legislative representation
Comments: Parliamentary parties receive public funding in proportion to their representation.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (8);
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
c . Unspecified
Comments: Parties are free to use public subsidies for broadly defined activities.Article 5 of the Political Parties Subsidization Act defines such activities as, among others, political education and training activities, provision of information and contacts with sister organizations outside the Netherlands, and campaigning.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Electoral Assessment Mission Report: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: All parties and candidates may receive unlimited contributions from private individuals and legal entities
Source: Parliamentary parties receive public funding in proportion to their representation.
Verified: 2022/08/02
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: All parties receiving public funding are obliged to report to the MoIKR, which is vested with the oversight of political finance. Financial reports have to include amounts donated for all donors who are not individuals and have donated more than EUR 4,538 in a year. Such donations also have to be made public by the party.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Electoral Assessment Mission Report: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/18
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
c . Government department
Comments: All parties receiving public funding are obliged to report to the MoIKR, which is vested with the oversight of political finance.
Source: OSCE/ODIHR 2012 Electoral Assessment Mission Report: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/NL/the-netherlands-elections-assessment-mission/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/03/18
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Immediately after the packets have been sealed as referred to in section N 2, the ballot box shall be opened.
The ballot papers shall be counted and their number compared with the number of voters who voted.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): Ch. N
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
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) p . Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count
Comments: The electoral committee shall determine in respect of each list: (a) the number of votes cast for each candidate;
(b) the sum of the numbers of votes referred to at (a).
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. N, Section N6.
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
b . Sub-district level
Comments: The official report, together with the sealed packets referred to in section N 2 and those referred to in section N 9, shall be taken by the chairperson or another member of the electoral committee designated by him to the mayor or an official designated by him.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. N, Section N. 11(1).
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
d . National level
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported
Comments: The mayor shall ensure that the official reports, together with a statement of the numbers of votes determined by him, are taken immediately to the chairperson of the principal electoral committee.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. N, Section N. 12(1).
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
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: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act), Ch. N.
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
c . Signatures on sealed envelopes e . Accompanied by election officials
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request f . Other
Comments: Section P21(1): At the meeting referred to in section P 20, before the result of the election is announced, the central electoral committee may decide, either ex proprio motu or in response to a reasoned request from one or more voters, to conduct a re-count of the ballot papers from all or from one or more polling stations if there are serious grounds for suspicion that errors in the count that might affect the allocation of seats have been made by one or more polling stations. The mayor who has the relevant ballot papers in his possession shall have them taken immediately to the central electoral committee at the latter’s request.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): Ch. N
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: The ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
a . Political parties b . An individual candidate c . Election officials f . Other
Comments: At the meeting referred to in section P 20, before the result of the election is announced, the central electoral committee may decide, either ex proprio motu or in response to a reasoned request from one or more voters, to conduct a re-count of the ballot papers from all or from one or more polling stations if there are serious grounds for suspicion that errors in the count that might affect the allocation of seats have been made by one or more polling stations. The mayor who has the relevant ballot papers in his possession shall have them taken immediately to the central electoral committee at the latter’s request.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body
Comments: At the meeting referred to in section P 20, before the result of the election is announced, the central electoral committee may decide, either ex proprio motu or in response to a reasoned request from one or more voters, to conduct a re-count of the ballot papers from all or from one or more polling stations if there are serious grounds for suspicion that errors in the count that might affect the allocation of seats have been made by one or more polling stations. The mayor who has the relevant ballot papers in his possession shall have them taken immediately to the central electoral committee at the latter’s request.
Source: Elections Act (1989), Chapter P, Section 21.
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Immediately after the votes have been counted, the chairperson shall announce in respect of each list both the number of votes cast for each candidate and the total number of votes cast. He shall also announce the number of blank and invalid votes cast.
Source: Elections Act (1989), sec. N.9(1).
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The central electoral committee shall determine the result of the election as quickly as possible
Source: Elections Act (1989), Chapter P, Section 20(1).
Verified: 2016/03/18
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: b) 2 days.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, former Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: Parliamentary parties are allocated free airtime in the public media on an annual basis, on an equal approach for all. In addition, during the campaign, parties that submit candidate lists in at least 19 out of 20 electoral districts get additional free airtime, also on an equal basis.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (9)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments: Television remains the main source of political information, and multiple debates are planned on public and private channels involving all parliamentary parties and other electoral contestants.
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (9)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: There is no blackout period.
Source:
Verified: 2022/08/02
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (9)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: On Tuesday 10 July 2018, the Senate approved the repeal of the Advisory Referendum Act. Therefore, voters can no longer submit any requests to the Electoral Council for an advisory referendum to be held.
Source: House of Representatives of the Netherlands - Rules of Procedure (2012), Section 20: https://www.houseofrepresentatives.nl/sites/default/files/content/rules_of_procedure_1.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no provisions for mandatory referendums in the legislation of the country (IDEA). Proposals for a binding referendum have repeatedly failed in the Netherlands (98-100).
Source: International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/node/301934; T. W. G. van der Meer et al., "The rise and fall of the Dutch referendum law (2015-2018): inititiation, use, and abolition of the corrective, citizen-initiated, and non-binding referendum," 27 August 202
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Legal provisions for Optional Referendum were repealed in 2018.
Source: Wet raadgevend referendum: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0036443/2015-07-01
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no provisions for citizens' initiatives in the legislation of the country (IDEA). What did exist between 2015 and 2018 was an Agenda Initiative, not a Citizen's Initiative.
Source: International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/node/301934;
T. W. G. van der Meer et al., "The rise and fall of the Dutch referendum law (2015-2018): inititiation, use, and abolition of the corrective, citizen-initiated, and non-binding referendum," 27 August 2020.
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Agenda Initiatives are handled by a parliamentary committee of the Lower House, called the committee for Petitions and Citizen's Initiatives. The code for this committee, along with the Rules of Procedure for the House of Representatives of the Netherlands, regulates agenda initiatives.
Source: House of Representatives of the Netherlands - Rules of Procedure (2012), Section 20: https://www.houseofrepresentatives.nl/sites/default/files/content/rules_of_procedure_1.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no provisions for recall initiatives in the legislation of the country.
Source: International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/node/301936
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
c . Other (specify)
Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
d . Other (specify)
Comments: d.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD106
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD107
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD108
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Information booklets b . Leaflets and pamphlets c . Radio broadcasts d . TV broadcasts e . Press advertisements f . Website
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
g . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
b . Selected campaign organisations
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD121
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
a . Financial grant
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD125
Question: Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
Answer(s):
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2007/01/23
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government c . President f . Other (specify)
Comments: f.) One or more members of the Lower House.
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/08/19
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD042
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
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.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
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.
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: None at the moment.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2007/01/23
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
a . Proponents of the initiative
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2007/01/23
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: There is no act in force for a recall.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
b . Other (specify)
Comments: b.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
b . Other (specify)
Comments: b.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
b . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2007/01/23
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
c . Other (specify)
Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
c . Other (specify)
Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: f.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: f.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
c . Other (specify)
Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
c . Other (specify)
Comments: c.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify)
Comments: e.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify)
Comments: e.) It depends on what is stated in the specific law.
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/09/06
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: While the Advisory Referendum Act was in place, referenda results were never binding.
Source: Wet raadgevend referendum: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0036443/2015-07-01
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: While the Advisory Referendum Act was in place, only issues other than constitutional changes were voted upon.
Source: Wet raadgevend referendum: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0036443/2015-07-01
Verified: 2022/08/02
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments: Three provinces (out of a total of 12) currently have legislation that provide for referenda. Only 41 out of 408 local authorities / municipalities have local legislation on referendums. The referendum regulations of the municipality of Halderberge are cited here as an example. All local authorities have provisions for agenda initiatives.
Source: Referendum Regulation for the Province of Limburg: http://www.limburg.nl/dsresource?objectid=21795&type=org&highlight=Referendumverordening; Referendum Regulation for the Province of North Holland: http://decentrale.regelgeving.overheid.nl/cvdr/XHTMLoutput/Actueel/Noord-Holland/83192.html; Referendum Regulation ofr the Province of Friesland: http://www.fryslan.nl/8154/referendumverordening-fryslan-2005/; Regulation on the Consultative Referendum: http://decentrale.regelgeving.overheid.nl/cvdr/xhtmloutput/Historie/Halderberge/31687/31687_1.htm
Verified: 2022/08/02
Voting Operations
VO001
Question: Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
Answer:
a . 91-100%
Comments:
Source: Mr. Gerard Boon
Verified: 2002/02/04
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
b . At any polling station in the same voting district c . At any polling station in the same country e . At mobile polling stations f . By mail h . By proxy
Comments: b, c): A voter can vote in any polling station of the municipality where she or he is registered, but may also request to vote at any other location in the country. e) A municipal executive may designate mobile polling stations in its municipality. f) Citizens residing abroad may request a postal ballot. h) All voters, including those residing abroad, may appoint a proxy to vote on their behalf if they are unable to be present at a polling station.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B6, J4a, J5, M, L, K;
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (6)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country g . Other
Comments: In an election to the House of Representatives, a voter who has his actual place of residence outside the Netherlands on nomination day or who will be outside the Netherlands on polling day on account of his profession or work or on account of the profession or work of his spouse, partner or parent, shall, at his request, be allowed to vote by post in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B6, J4a, J5, M, L, K;
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
d . By proxy e . By mail
Comments: All voters, including those residing abroad, may appoint a proxy to vote on their behalf if they are unable to be present at a polling station. Citizens residing abroad may request a postal ballot.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B6, J4a, J5, M, L, K;
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (6)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2002/06/18
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments: People can not vote in advance.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2002/06/25
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: Electors can not vote in advance.
Source: Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl
Verified: 2002/06/25
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2002/06/18
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: Overseas voters have the option of downloading their postal ballot electronically but have to mark and cast the ballots in hard copy.
Source: Act of 28 September 1989 containing new provisions governing the franchise and elections (Elections Act): B6, J4a, J5, M, L, K;
http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/research/Netherlands/Netherlands_Elections%20Act_1989am2009.pdf
OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (6)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
Verified: 2022/08/02
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 3
The largest polling station:
Average per polling station:
Source
Heemskerk, Ruud, Member of the National Election Board, stemid(a)worldonline.nl, interview in Stockholm 30/6-01.
Verified
2017/03/21
Forgot your password?
