Kieswet

Kieswet is the Dutch term for the electoral act that constitutes the legal framework for elections in the Netherlands. The act covers the scope of elections it governs, including national, provincial, municipal, and water-board elections, and defines who may vote and who may stand as a candidate, as well as election administration rules.

The Kieswet established the organizational structures and procedures for elections, including the creation and duties of the Kiesraad, the national electoral council, and the role of local election commissions. It sets rules on how ballots are prepared, how votes are cast, how votes are counted, and how results are certified.

The law prescribes the system of proportional representation used in the Netherlands, implemented through party lists and, where applicable, preference votes, with seats allocated according to a defined method described in the act. It also governs campaign financing, complaint procedures, and remedies in case of irregularities.

Over time, Kieswet has been amended to reflect changes in election administration, technology, and accessibility, while remaining the central legal framework for democratic elections in the country. The Kiesraad and the courts ensure compliance with its provisions.