Queen Margrethe II of Denmark’s Abdication Ushers a New Era for the Danish Royal Family
Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II announced she is stepping down on January 14. Her son, Crown Prince Frederik, and his wife Princess Mary will assume the throne.
Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, one of Europe’s longest-serving royals announced on December 31 that she is stepping down, marking a new era of change in the Danish Royal Family. During a televised broadcast, Margrethe, who will mark 52 years on the throne, said her son, Crowned Prince Frederik will take over.
“Tonight, first of all, I want to say thank you. Thank you for the overwhelming warmth and support that I have received over the years. A thank you to the changing governments, with whom it has always been rewarding to work together, and to the Danish Parliament, which has always met me with confidence,” she said in the speech posted on the Danish Royal Family’s website.
“Thank you to the many, many people who on special occasions and in everyday life have embraced me and my family with kind words and thoughts, turning the years into a string of pearls,” she added.
Margrethe thanked those who assisted her through the years and hoped that the assistance would be provided once her son and his wife, Princess Mary assumed the reign.
A Long Time Coming for Denmark
Queen Magrethe’s announcement was a timely one, as the Danish Royal family has been following other countries in slimming down the number of its royals in recent years. However, the decision caused friction last year between Margrethe and her second son Prince Joachim, whose children were affected.
Frederik, 55, will assume the title of king alongside his wife, Princess Mary, whom he met in Australia during the Sydney Olympics. The couple is also considered as an epitome of modern royalties raising their four children, including Prince Christian—the next in line to the throne in a normal setting.
Many are also hoping for Crown Prince Frederik to follow his mother’s style of a relaxed reign. But others are wishing that he will continue to push for initiatives, especially on the issue of climate change.
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