Amsterdam is governed by the City Council and the College of Mayor and Alderpersons. District committees and the Weesp administrative committee also handle issues closer to individual neighbourhoods. Here is the structure in simple terms.
Amsterdam City Council
Amsterdam’s City Council has 45 elected members. The council is the city’s highest representative body: it takes decisions on municipal policy and monitors the College of Mayor and Alderpersons. Council meetings and documents are public.
The College of Mayor and Alderpersons
The College is responsible for the day-to-day administration of Amsterdam. In 2026 it consists of the mayor and 9 alderpersons, supported by the municipal organisation. Each member has their own policy portfolio.
District committees and Weesp
Amsterdam also has district committees and an administrative committee for Weesp. They are involved in local matters and advise or decide on issues closer to neighbourhoods and residents.
How to follow current city government
The City of Amsterdam website publishes council meetings, executive decisions, policy documents and current information about the College and district administration. For current names, portfolios and political composition, use the official city website because these can change during a governing term.
Why this article was updated
Old references to previous priorities and policy plans have been removed so this page explains the current administrative structure without presenting an outdated political snapshot as current.
For more related ideas, continue to our guide to practical Amsterdam travel tips.