Denmark’s Queen Margrethe apologizes for the fuss that has arisen over her “necessary” decision to strip Prince Joachim’s children of their titles. She makes this known on the website of the Danish court. From next year, the four children of her youngest son will only be Count and Countess of Monpezat.
“In recent days there has been a strong reaction to my decision about the future use of titles for Prince Joachim’s four children,” said Margrethe. “It touches me clearly. My decision has been a long time in coming. My 50th anniversary on the throne is a natural moment to look both back and forward. It is my duty and my wish as Queen to ensure that the monarchy continues to adapt to the times.”
This sometimes forces her to make “difficult decisions. Carrying a royal title entails a number of obligations and duties, which will be borne by fewer members of the royal family in the future”, reports the queen. “I see this adjustment as a necessary safeguard for the future of the monarchy. I made my decision as queen, mother and grandmother. But as a mother and grandmother, I underestimated how much my youngest son and his family feel touched.”
She expresses the hope that her family will find peace and find a place to give her decision.