Editing Netherlands Armed Forces (section)

== Foundation in law and purpose ==
The Netherlands armed forces exist by declaration in the [[constitution of the Netherlands]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Artikel 97: Krijgsmacht |url=https://www.denederlandsegrondwet.nl/id/vkugbqvedhvy/artikel_97_krijgsmacht |website=denederlandsegrondwet.nl |publisher=De Nederlandse Grondwet |access-date=15 February 2021}}</ref> Article 97 of the constitution determines that the armed forces exist
* To defend the [[Kingdom of the Netherlands]] and its interests in the world; and
* To protect and advance the international rule of law.

This means that the role and responsibility of the Dutch military in international stability and peacekeeping is constitutionally determined.

The same article of the constitution determines that supreme command of the Dutch military resides with the [[Government of the Netherlands]]. This has been the case since the constitution was changed in 1983; before then, supreme command of the armed forces of the Netherlands was held by the [[Monarchy of the Netherlands|Monarch]].