Overheidspartij

Overheidspartij is a term used in Dutch political discourse to refer to a political party (or coalition) that forms part of the government, i.e., the party or parties that hold executive power and support the cabinet's policy agenda. In practice, the exacte betekenis depends on the context, but it generally denotes the party or coalition currently governing and responsible for implementing laws and policies.

In parliamentary systems an overheidspartij typically shares power with other coalition partners and may secure ministerial posts in the cabinet. The party or coalition that is in government is responsible for proposing legislation through the cabinet, administering government programs, and presenting the state budget. Its policy program is expected to guide government action, while parliamentary majority or coalition agreements help sustain governance and coordinate policy across ministries.

The term contrasts with opposition parties, which scrutinize government action and seek to influence policy from outside the governing coalition. The status of an overheidspartij can change after elections or through shifts in coalition arrangements, cabinet reshuffles, or confidence votes.

Because the term is context-dependent, it is common in Dutch usage to substitute regeringspartij or coalitiepartij, which are more precise in signaling that a party is part of the government or part of the governing coalition. In analyses, the concept highlights the party’s responsibility for governance and its accountability to voters, parliament, and the media.