The independent non-executive directors face the dilemma of being col-leagues with the other board members but also having to monitor them at the same time. This monitor-colleague-dilemma could be diminished, however, by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of each director. It is mainly the responsibility of the chairman to hold meetings in an environment in which there is a clear understanding of the different tasks of the board members and in which problems and questions can be discussed frankly and openly. In addition, it is the task of the shareholders to find suitable persons to fill the board. The non-executive directors must have a breadth of experience in order to understand the business and the sufficient confidence to hinder the other board members from making mistakes. In addition, shareholders must bear in mind the fact that they need persons on the board that represent their interests. If these requirements are met, it is possible for the independent non-executive directors to simultaneously act as colleagues in matters of strategy-setting and decision-making, as well as supervisors. This double function was traditionally integrated into the one-tier system and it has been, with a focus on non-executive directors, highlighted in the recent debate: non-executive directors participate in setting the corporate strategy and in monitoring the management. If necessary, they are obliged to seek the removal of the executive directors from office.