top of page

Theatres of Democracy​

This proposal is based on a research about the different degrees of formality of a parliamentary debate. During a debate, for example, it sometimes happens that while a parliamentarian is questioning the govern-ment – a very formal situation – other parliamentarians in the back of the chamber (de Plenaire Zaal) informally consult on the strategy to be followed later in the debate. Both formally and informally consultation is important for the political process. Therefore in the chamber of this proposal there are two different types of seating area designed for the parliamentarians. While in the front of the Chamber parliamentarians sit on formal benches (opposition and coalition like the English model opposite to each other), the parliamentarians in the back of the Chamber can seat themselves in more informal seating to discuss and compromise. Thus is tried to mix the vehemence of the English debate together with the historic willingness to consult, which is typical of the Dutch parliamentary tradition.

bottom of page