formieren

Formeren is the Dutch political term for the process of forming a new government or cabinet after elections. It encompasses coalition talks, the creation of a governing program, and the installation of ministers. In the Netherlands and in Dutch-speaking Belgium (Flanders), government formation typically requires cooperation among multiple parties, since no single party usually holds a majority.

Key roles in formulating a government are the informateur and the formateur. An informateur is appointed by parliament to explore possible coalitions and assess political viability. A formateur, usually the leader of the party that will head the next cabinet, leads negotiations to reach a coalition agreement and a shared policy program. The coalition agreement details policy goals, ministerial portfolios, and the distribution of posts among coalition partners.

The process concludes with the formation of a cabinet. Ministers are appointed by the monarch on the advice of the formateur, and the new government is installed after a formal swearing-in. The cabinet then seeks confidence from parliament. If coalition talks fail, a caretaker government may remain in office while negotiations continue.

Formeren as a concept is anchored in constitutional conventions and political practice rather than a single statute. The monarch’s role is largely ceremonial, while parliament and political parties shape the formation through the appointment of informateurs and the lead role of the formateur. The process underscores the importance of consensus and parliamentary support in Dutch-speaking political systems.