regeerakkoord

A regeerakkoord, in Dutch politics, is the coalition agreement that lays out the policy program of a new government formed by political parties that have joined to govern after an election. The document is negotiated by the coalition partners and signed by their leaders, and it serves as the government’s overarching agenda for the term of office.

The agreement typically covers a wide range of policy areas, such as the economy and taxes, healthcare and social welfare, education, housing, climate and energy, immigration, and public safety. It also outlines short- and medium-term priorities, legislative goals, fiscal plans, and the division of governmental responsibilities, including which party is expected to lead each ministry. The regeerakkoord is intended to provide clarity for Parliament, civil service, and the public about the government’s commitments and the timetable for implementing laws and budgets.

In practice, the regeerakkoord functions as a politically binding contract rather than a legally enforceable treaty. It guides the cabinet’s policy choices and forms the basis against which the Parliament can assess government performance. If a party withdraws from the coalition or if disagreements arise, the agreement may be renegotiated, replaced, or lead to the formation of a new government.

The formation of a regeerakkoord follows elections, typically under the guidance of a formateur or informateur who facilitates negotiations among potential coalition partners. The resulting document is presented to the House of Representatives as the program the new government intends to pursue, and it is used to justify proposed legislation and annual budgets during the term.