The Legal And Constitutional Position of the Netherlands Armed Forces and International Military Cooperation

Abstract

This report discusses:I.The Historical and Political Background of the Netherlands Military Law System; II. Rules concerning the Use of Military Force (including constitutional mission of armed forces, permissible operations within and outside the NL, joint operations with foreign and international armed forces; relations with executive and parliament); III.The Structure of the Armed Forces; IV.Soldiers’ Rights and Duties; V.The Relationship of the Superior to Subordinate Personnel; VI. Sanctions (disciplinary measures and criminal law); VII. Regulations governing Guard Duties (including use of arms and other equipment); VIII. Legal Reforms with respect to Multinational Operations and Structures.The descriptions are according the state of the law in 2001/2002.