What powers does the Dutch monarch have under the constitution?

The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy where the monarch serves as the head of state. Under the constitution, the monarch is considered inviolable, a status that embodies the principle of ministerial responsibility, meaning the monarch does not act alone in political matters.1

The monarch’s powers are exercised in conjunction with ministers, collectively defined as the Crown. Key functions include:

• Government Formation: Following parliamentary elections, the monarch formally appoints ministers after a process of coalition bargaining.1
• Legislative Role: The monarch is part of the Crown, which shares legislative power with the two houses of the States General.1
• Dissolution of Parliament: Acting on the advice of ministers, the monarch has the authority to dissolve one or both chambers of parliament, which necessitates the holding of new elections.1

Because the monarch acts on the advice of the government, they do not exercise independent political power, ensuring that no government remains in office against the will of the parliament.1