The Netherlands' democratic institutions are strong, although concern over terrorism has led to an increased focus on civil rights.
Elections are fair and transparent, and traditional civil liberties well protected. A concentration of media ownership has undermined media pluralism somewhat.
Police have been given new rights to use public cameras, body searches and wiretaps. The large immigrant population faces some discrimination.
Dutch economic policy features close communication between businesses, trade unions, and the government.
Low unemployment rates supplemented by generous levels of social support are known as the "Dutch miracle."
Risk-taking, innovative entrepreneurship is relatively uncommon. Corporate tax rates are not high, and income taxes are progressive.
Budgets have been in balance, but significant future expenditures loom.
Dutch progressive taxation, and minimum income guarantees help reduce socioeconomic disparities substantially.
Health care is financed by a market-oriented, consumer-friendly common insurance system.
Women are well integrated into the labor market, with employers often sharing child-care costs.
A mix of pension plans effectively prevents old-age poverty, though an aging population will stress this system.
The Netherlands' NATO and EU memberships serve as the core of external security policy.
Organized crime is on the rise, while several prominent recent murders point to other home-grown problems.
Immigrant communities are large, and integration policies well developed. Some difficulties have emerged with migrants of Moroccan and Turkish background.
The Netherlands' dense population and role as a transit hub intensifies environmental pressure, and water and air pollution remain relatively high. Flood danger has increased in recent years.
R&D expenditure is low, although recent policies have aimed at boosting these levels.
A relatively small proportion of residents achieve university educations, but this figure is on the rise.