The word "democracy" comes from two Greek words: demos ("people") and kratos ("power"). But it is impossible for 16 million people to govern a country. So they elect representatives to do it for them.

All Dutch citizens aged 18 or over may vote in elections for the House of Representatives, the provincial councils, and municipal councils. These elections are held every four years. Dutch citizens may also stand in them.

An important principle of the Dutch system of government is the separation of powers between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Government (the executive branch) initiates most legislation, and Parliament (the legislative branch) passes or rejects it. The Government ensures that legislation is put into practice, and Parliament scrutinises how this is done. The independent judiciary examines whether legislation has been complied with.