Council of State, Supreme court and administrative court in The Hague, Netherlands
The Council of State is the highest administrative court and advisory body for the Dutch government, located in a building on Korte Voorhout in The Hague. The institution handles appeals against governmental administrative decisions while also reviewing legislative proposals.
The institution was founded in 1531 under Philip of Burgundy and became central to how the Netherlands structures administrative justice. Over centuries, it shaped the way governmental processes operate within the Dutch system.
The institution embodies legal principles that are foundational to Dutch governance and become visible in daily decisions. Visitors notice how this body marks the boundary between judicial power and advisory function.
The building is centrally located and open for visitors, though it functions primarily as an active court. Those wishing to tour the interior should check ahead, as access may sometimes be limited.
The institution serves two completely different roles simultaneously: it is both the highest court for administrative disputes and the main advisory body for new laws. This dual function is uncommon in European judicial systems and gives it a distinctive character.
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