Overview of Netherlands

Profile

The Netherlands is a maritime nation built on reclaimed lowlands at the mouth of the Rhine River, prospering through tolerance and international trade. Despite having one of Europe's highest population densities, it has achieved advanced urban planning and social welfare, and plays a central role in the global economy through logistics, finance, and high-tech industries centered on Rotterdam Port, Amsterdam, and Schiphol Airport. Beyond iconic landscapes of windmills, tulips, cheese, and canals, the country possesses rich art heritage from Renaissance to modern times, attracting visitors from around the world.

Official name: Kingdom of the Netherlands
Common name: Netherlands
Numeric code: 528
Alpha-3 code: NLD
Alpha-2 code: NL
Population: 18 million (2024)
Population density: 523 people/km2
Primary languages: Dutch, West Frisian, English (Caribbean territories), Papiamento
Major religions: Non-religious, Christianity, Islam
National anthem: Wilhelmus
Calling code: +31
Internet TLD: .nl

History

Gained independence from Spain in the 16th century and reached its Golden Age as a maritime empire in the 17th century.

After the Eighty Years' War that began in 1568, independence was declared in 1581 and international recognition was gained with the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648. The 17th century was the Golden Age, dominating world trade through the East India Company and maritime shipping, while art and science flourished. Belgium separated in the 19th century, and colonial withdrawal occurred in the late 20th century. Post-war, the country actively participated in welfare state development and European integration, establishing the 'Dutch Model' through 1980s economic reforms, and continues to play an important role in international society as a founding member of the EU and NATO.

Geography & climate

Flat reclaimed lowlands occupy most of territory, crisscrossed with canals, dykes, and windmills.

Oceanic climate

Area: Europe / 41526 km²
Capital: Amsterdam
Largest city: Amsterdam
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: IJsselmeer
Bordering countries: Germany, Belgium

Natural resources

Natural gas, North Sea oil field, Rock salt, Peat, Offshore wind, Fertile clay soil, Fresh groundwater, Shell sand, Tidal power resources, Marine fish and shellfish

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary system

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 1,040 billion US Dollar (2023)

GDP (PPP): 1,220 billion International Dollar (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Dutch, West Frisian, English (Caribbean territories), Papiamento

Time zone: Central European Time, Atlantic Standard Time (Caribbean territories)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Dutch, Frisian, Turkish, Moroccan, Indonesian, Surinamese, Antillean, German

Life expectancy

82.2 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Football, Speed skating, Field hockey, Cycling, Volleyball, Tennis