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President of the Senate (Netherlands) facts for kids

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President of the Senate
Coat of arms of the Eerste Kamer.svg
Coat of arms of the Senate
Jan Anthonie Bruijn
Incumbent
Jan Anthonie Bruijn

since 2 July 2019
Style Mr President
(within the Senate)
His Excellency (diplomatic)
Member of Presidium of the Senate
Term length No term limit
Constituting instrument Constitution of the Netherlands
Formation 21 September 1815; 209 years ago (1815-09-21)
First holder Charles Thiennes de Lombise
Deputy Deputy Speaker
Salary €126,975.48 annually
(including €7,887.24 expenses)


The President of the Senate (in Dutch, Voorzitter van de Eerste Kamer der Staten-Generaal) is a very important person in the Dutch government. This person is one of the 75 members of the Senate of the Netherlands. Think of the Senate as a special group of people who check new laws. The President is chosen by the other members to lead their meetings. They also act as the main representative for the Senate.

The President of the Senate also leads a few important groups. These include the Internal Committee and the Committee of Senior Members. They also lead special meetings where both parts of the Dutch parliament come together. This big meeting is called the Verenigde Vergadering.

Currently, Jan Anthonie Bruijn holds this important job. He is a member of the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). He has been the President since July 2, 2019.

What Does the President Do?

The President of the Senate has several key roles. They make sure that meetings run smoothly and fairly. They also represent the Senate when dealing with other parts of the government or other countries. It's a bit like being the captain of a team.

Leading Meetings

One of the main jobs is to lead the Senate's discussions. The President makes sure everyone follows the rules. They give people a chance to speak and keep the debates organized. This helps the Senate make good decisions about new laws.

Representing the Senate

The President is also the face of the Senate. They meet with important people and attend official events. This role helps the Senate connect with other parts of the government. It also helps them work with people from other countries.

Special Committees

The President leads special groups within the Senate. The Internal Committee helps manage the daily work of the Senate. The Committee of Senior Members helps with important decisions and advice. These groups make sure the Senate runs well.

Joint Parliament Meetings

Sometimes, both parts of the Dutch parliament meet together. This is called the Verenigde Vergadering. The President of the Senate leads these big meetings. This happens for very important events, like when the King gives a speech.

How is the President Chosen?

The President of the Senate is chosen by the members of the Senate themselves. They vote for one of their own members to take on this leadership role. This means the President is someone the other members trust and respect.

See also

  • List of presidents of the Senate (Netherlands)
  • Speaker of the House of Representatives (Netherlands)
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