In 1994, the Dutch honours system was extensively revised by law following almost thirty years of discussion. The first honours under the new system were conferred during the 'General Occasion' in 1996. Through this revision, the law intended to create a more democratic honours system in which there was no longer place for automatic conferral. The level of the honours was disconnected from rank and social status. In principle, everyone in our society can be honoured. An honour is only awarded on the basis of special, personal merits for society.

One aspect of the revision was the discontinuation of the Brother medal, linked to the Order of the Netherlands Lion since 1815. This medal was intended for people of humble origins who were exceptionally deserving. The bearer of the brother medal did not have a knightly grade but was entitled to a small pension.

Since the revision of the system, the Order of the Netherlands Lion only has three knightly degrees. These are: Grand Cross, Commander and Knight.