Denmark’s Queen Margrethe reveals surprise abdication on live television

Queen Margrethe of Denmark, the longest-serving monarch in Europe, has announced her abdication. She will relinquish her throne on January 14, after a reign of 52 years. Her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, is set to succeed her. The queen made this unexpected announcement during her traditional New Year's Eve speech, broadcasted live on television. This speech is a significant event in Denmark, a nation of 5. 9 million people.

The queen referred to a successful back surgery she underwent in February. She stated that the surgery prompted her to contemplate the future and consider whether it was time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation. She declared, 'I have decided that now is the right time. On 14 January 2024 – 52 years after I ascended the throne following my beloved father – I will abdicate as queen of Denmark. ' She also confirmed that she would bequeath the throne to her son, Crown Prince Frederik.

Following the demise of Britain's Queen Elizabeth in September 2022, Queen Margrethe became the longest-serving monarch in Europe. In July, she made history as the longest-reigning monarch in Denmark's history. In Denmark, the elected parliament and its government wield the formal power. The monarch is expected to remain impartial in politics, representing the nation through traditional duties such as state visits and national day celebrations. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed her gratitude to the queen for her lifelong dedication to duty. She acknowledged the difficulty in comprehending the impending change of throne.