Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has announced in her New Year’s Address that she will step down on 14 January 2024. This date also marks the 52nd anniversary of her accession to the throne.
She said, “In two weeks’ time, I have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years. Such an amount will leave its mark on anybody – also on me! The time takes its toll, and the number of “ailments” increases. One cannot undertake as much as one managed in the past.
In February this year, I underwent extensive back surgery. Everything went well, thanks to the competent health personnel, who took care of me. Inevitably, the operation gave cause to thoughts about the future – whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation.
I have decided that now is the right time. On 14th January, 2024 – 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father – I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I will hand over the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik.
Tonight, I, first and foremost would like to express my thanks. Thank you for the overwhelming warmth and support which I have received during all these years. Thank you to the changing governments with whom the collaboration always has been rewarding, and thank you to The Parliament, who have always vested their confidence in me.
Thank you to the many, many people who, on special occasions and in everyday life, have embraced me and my family with kind words and thoughts, turning the years into a string of pearls.
The support and assistance which I have received throughout the years, have been crucial to the success of my task. It is my hope that the new King and Queen will be met with the same trust and devotion which have fallen to my lot.”
Her eldest son Frederik will thus become King Frederik X in two weeks.
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