Dutch politics operates within a parliamentary democracy, where the King serves as the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Parliament, known as the Staten-Generaal, consists of two chambers: the Tweede Kamer (House of Representatives) and the Eerste Kamer (Senate). Members of the Tweede Kamer are directly elected, while the Eerste Kamer is appointed by the provincial legislatures. Political parties play a significant role in the Dutch system, with a multi-party landscape that often leads to coalition governments. Major parties include the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), the Labour Party (PvdA), and the Green Left (GroenLinks). Elections are held every four years, and the political climate is characterized by a focus on consensus and compromise.