The order of Freemasons has always included in its legislation a declaration of what should be the most distinguishing characteristics of a Freemason and the implications of his membership to the order. Our current constitution describes this, in section 1, as follows (§1.1-§1.5

Article 1.1 The Freemason.

A Freemason is a free man of good name, who has been initiated into a lodge, belonging to the Order, or a lodge, working under another Grand Lodge recognized by the Order.

He works, with other Freemasons, using symbols and rituals to further his own personal development.

The interpretation of these traditional symbols and rituals is at his own discretion. Co-operative working encourages him to contribute, within his ability, to a better society.

Freemasons seek that which unites and to remove that which causes dissent  So that the ideal of a brotherhood uniting all will be the result.

He thus accepts a personal responsibility to the world, which he visualises as an incomplete building, in which each man is a living ashlar or stone.

He works in the light of a higher principle, symbolically represented as the grand architect of the universe.

The Freemason recognizes the importance of human individuality, the equality of all people, everyone's right to independently search for truth and their responsibility for their own actions

Article 1.2 The Lodge
Freemasonry is practised by local associations each association being called a Lodge.
Freemasons practice tolerance and harmony. As such lodges become meeting places for men different background, life philosophy  and  outlook.
Working together conduces to unity of all Freemasons. This unity is called brotherhood.

Article 1.3 The Order
The Order of Freemasons under the Great East of the Netherlands is the organisation within which the conditions are formed to be able to practice freemasonry accordance with the original traditions

Article 1.4 The State
The order requires obedience to the laws of the land as long as the laws do not limit freedom of thought and meetings.

Article 1.5 International Relations.
The order maintains relations with recognised foreign Grand Lodges. Thus  members are able to visit and work abroad, so that the chain of brotherhood will span the world.