Freedom means that you can think, say and do what you wish. In the Netherlands we have a great deal of freedom. Everyone in the Netherlands has the same degree of freedom. This means that other people may also think, say and do what they wish. The most important freedoms are set out in the text below.
All people are equal. By equality, we do not mean that all people have to be the same because, clearly, everyone is different. However, all people are of equal value. And everyone must be treated in the same way.
The Netherlands is a democracy. In a democracy, residents elect the government of the country. During elections every Dutch person over the age of 18 may vote for anyone who has put themselves forward for election. Elections are free and confidential. This means that everyone may vote and that you never have to tell anyone who you voted for.
