The Royal Household supports the King, Queen Máxima and Princess Beatrix, in both their work and private spheres. It also supports other members of the Royal House in their official duties. It employs almost 300 staff, working in The Hague, Amsterdam, Apeldoorn and Baarn.
At his investiture, the King stated that the task of the head of state was to unify, represent and encourage the people. To this end, the King has various official duties such as signing legislation, receiving ambassadors’ credentials and swearing in senior officials with roles in public administration and the judiciary. But the King also supports the people of the Netherlands by joining with them at times of public rejoicing or sorrow. He represents the Kingdom at incoming state visits, or when going on state or other official or working visits abroad. By focusing attention on volunteer organisations, community initiatives, sports clubs and cultural organisations, educational institutions and businesses, the King encourages worthwhile social developments and activities. He does this through working visits, but also through conferences, meetings and receptions at the palaces. These events are prepared and organised by the Royal Household in close consultation with the organisations and bodies concerned.
The Royal Household is proud of its long history and seeks to uphold tradition, while at the same time ensuring that it develops and innovates. It comprises various departments with particular specialisms or expertise, like the Department of the Marshal of the Court, the Royal Stables and the Royal Collections. The staff work closely with the King's Office, the Government Information Service and the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Department.