A move towards a more "streamlined" monarchy. Queen Margrethe of Denmark has stripped her grandchildren who are children of her second son, Joachim, of royal titles. They will now be called "Your Excellency" instead of "Your Royal Highness." Instead of being princes and princesses they are counts or countesses. They keep their place in the royal succession, though. She said this will allow them to have more normal lives instead of being dominated by roles in the monarchy. I assume it will also reduce the cost of the monarchy. They will have their own careers. I think Prince Christian, Crown Prince Frederick's son, is the only one who will be supported by the state.
(Oh, one little bit of trivia: kings of Denmark are always named either Christian or Frederick.)
Only the first half of this video has narration. After that it is just pictures of the Danish royal family.
Actually, I don't know if the title is correct. I don't think Joachim, pictured on the right with his wife, is being stripped of his title. Just his children.
Joachim has made angry statements about this. I think that is kind of childish.
In reply the Queen wrote:
In recent days, there have been strong reactions to my decision about the future use ot titles for Prince Joachim's four children. That attects me, ot course
My decision has been a long time coming With my 50 years on the throne, it is natural both to look back and to look ahead. It is my duty and my desire as Queen to ensure that the monarchy always shapes itself in keeping with the times Sometimes, this means that difficult decisions must be made, and it will always be difficult to find the right moment.
Holding a royal title involves a number of commitments and duties that, in the future, will lie with fewer members of the royal family: This adjustment, which I view as a necessary future proofing of the monarchy: I want to take in my my own time.
I have made my decision as Queen, mother and grandmother, but, as a mother and grandmother, I have underestimated the extent to which much my younger sons feel affected,that makes a big impression and for that l am sorry.
No one should be in doubt that my children, daughters-in-law and grandchildren are my great joy and pride. I now hope that we as a family can find the peace to find our way through this situation.
Margrethe R.
More photos below.
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