King Carl XVI Gustaf has delivered his annual Christmas Day address to the Swedish people on television and radio.
He began his speech by revealing that he celebrated with his children and grandchildren (minus Princess Madeleine and her family who reside in Florida) on 23 December which coincided with Queen Silvia’s 76th birthday.
“For most people in our country, Christmas is a special holiday, surrounded by traditions. No matter what your Christmas weekend looks like and where you spend it, I hope it gives you time for reflection,” he then said.
The King spoke of challenges people face in Sweden and abroad – from knife crime to climate change.
He also spoke about his and the Queen’s state visit to India this year and how it retraced steps of his ancestors: “Something that pleased me personally was that parts of the trip went in the tracks of my ancestors: During the 1910s and 1920s, both my grandfather Gustaf Adolf and his brother Prince Vilhelm made long trips in this fascinating country.”
His Majesty spoke of the positive events that happened in Sweden and within his family. He stressed, “Let me also say something about Sweden’s children and young people, and everyone who works with them. I am convinced that every human being needs to be seen. If you don’t, you might do what you can to be seen instead.”
He made sure to specifically mention those who have to work on Christmas and to thank them.
Of course, the decision to strip some of his grandchildren of their Royal Highness status and membership in the Royal House was mentioned, “Earlier this year I made a decision to delimit what is called the Royal House. The decision means that it is made clear who within the royal family will act as official representatives of Sweden in the future. For me, this is a way of clarifying what expectations are.
“Hopefully it can be helpful when my grandchildren will eventually stand out for their own future. But, to that day, it is far away.”
The King concluded by saying, “Now the Queen and I are looking forward to spending time with the family. We now have seven small grandchildren between one and seven years. It’s not always so peaceful and quiet, but very fun!
“With this, I wish everyone in our country a continued Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year – and a strong faith in the future!”
His full speech can be read here.
