Frederick He was acclaimed this Sunday by a crowd after acceding to the throne of Denmark, after the abdication of his mother Margaret, a new stage in the history of this Nordic monarchy, after 52 years of reign.
“Today we are Sunday, January 14, 2024. Her Majesty Queen Margaret II abdicated (…) Long live His Majesty King Frederick X“, proclaimed the prime minister, Mette Frederiksenfrom the balcony of Christiansborg Palace, before about 100,000 people.
In Denmark, the role of the monarch is mainly representative. The king, however, signs laws, formally presides over the formation of the government, and meets periodically with the cabinet.
Philip X established himself as the new king of Denmark
The new king, in military uniform, and his family were applauded by the crowd. “My mother managed to be one with her kingdom like few others (…) My hope is to become a unifying king for the future,” said Frederick X. “It is a responsibility that I assume with respect, pride and great joy.”
Before leaving the balcony, the monarch kissed his wife, Queen Mary, dressed in a white dress. Born in Australia, she is the first Danish queen who does not come from nobility.
Margarita II, 83, signed the act of abdication during a Council of State, in the presence of the government. By certifying the document, an unprecedented act in the country’s contemporary history, she ended her 52-year reign and automatically made her son king.
It is the second time that a Danish sovereign abdicates. King Eric III did it almost nine centuries ago, in 1146. Images broadcast on television showed the ex-monarch excited, dressed in a dark pink outfit. “May God bless the king,” she said with tears in her eyes.
His vehicle left the palace, seat of government and parliament, to the applause of the crowd. The city was full of banners with the queen’s face and messages of gratitude. In the subway, some signs read: “Thank you for the trip, Margarita.” Others, “long live the king.”
The protocol broadly reflected Denmark’s succession tradition. No foreign king was invited to the event and the sovereign, who does not wear a crown, will not sit on a throne. Margaret decided to abdicate exactly 52 years after taking over from her father, Frederick IX.
The announcement of the monarch’s abdication on New Year’s Eve left Danes stunned, including her own family, as she stated on numerous occasions that she would reign until her death.
Margarita justified her decision due to health problems after undergoing major back surgery last year. More than 80% of Danes supported her decision, according to polls.
Margaret will retain her title as queen and will be able to represent the royal family during official ceremonies. Frederick X took on increasing responsibilities in recent years. Experts believe that passing the baton to him now will give him more time to define himself in the role of his monarch.
Like his mother, he enjoys the support of more than 80% of Danes. She is expected to bring her own style to the monarchy, which dates back to the Viking Age of the 10th century.
Queen Margaret is known for her love of the arts and her artistic streak, while Frederick is an athlete who defends environmental causes.
Source: Ambito
