In a New Year's TV address, Denmark's Queen Margrethe II has announced her unexpected abdication from the throne after a remarkable 52-year reign.
The 83-year-old monarch, the longest-serving in Danish history, will officially step down on January 14, with her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, succeeding her.
The decision comes after a period of reflection following the queen's back surgery in early 2023. In her address, Queen Margrethe II expressed gratitude to the Danish public for their support and revealed the timing was influenced by thoughts about the future.
“I have decided that now is the right time,” she stated. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen thanked the queen for her service, acknowledging her lifelong dedication and tireless efforts.
On January 14, Crown Prince Frederik, 55, will ascend to the throne without a formal crowning ceremony. The accession announcement will be made from Amalienborg Castle in Copenhagen.
Unlike British royal tradition, Denmark's constitutional monarchy will witness a change of throne without a formal crowning ceremony. Queen Margrethe II, affectionately known as Daisy, has been a popular figure in Denmark.
She had attended Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022, and both queens celebrated their respective jubilees in the same year.
Danish journalist Tine Gotzsche compared Queen Margrethe II to Queen Elizabeth II, saying, “She is to us what Queen Elizabeth was to you.” The Danish queen, known for her smoking habits and rejection of modern technologies, holds the record as the longest-reigning monarch in Danish history.
Crown Prince Frederik, recognized for his passion for the environment, is poised to guide Denmark into the future. He and his wife, Princess Mary, represent modern values, emphasizing normalcy for their four children.
The Danish royal family has recently changed to streamline its members. Last year, a public rift occurred when Prince Joachim's children were stripped of their royal titles.