Belgium

King Philippe of Belgium condemns 'cruel and senseless' war in Ukraine in his annual Christmas Even broadcast

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24th December 2022
The King of the Belgians has used his annual Christmas Eve speech to condemn the ‘cruel and senseless’ war in Ukraine, as the conflict is set to carry on into 2023. In his address to the nation, His Majesty said that the people of Ukraine are fighting for their freedom and security, as did their ancestors in conflict of the past. He went on to thank the citizens of Belgium who…
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Norway

King Harald of Norway announces his retirement (but not as King!)

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22nd December 2022
King Harald of Norway has announced his retirement. But fear not, His Majesty is not stepping away from the throne, but his lifelong hobby – sailing. His Majesty has made the decision to no longer participate in international competitions, something he has done all of his adult life. The King, aged 85, has recently been discharged from hospital after receiving treatment for an…
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State & Ceremonial

Will there ever be another Mistress of the Robes?

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15th December 2022
On December 3 2021, Fortune FitzRoy, the Dowager Duchess of Grafton, died at the age of 101. For more than half a century, the Duchess was Mistress of the Robes – the most senior lady in the Royal Household. The honorary position dates back to 1553 when Susan Clarencieux was appointed Mistress of the Robes to Queen Mary I. However, following the death of the Dowager Duchess of…
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Luxembourg

Tension within Luxembourg's Royal Family as Grand Duchess Maria Teresa embroiled in altercation with staff member

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9th December 2022
Tensions appear to be rising in the Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg after it was revealed that Grand Duchess Maria Teresa became embroiled in a verbal altercation with a member of staff. According to newspaper d’Lëtzebuerger Land‘ and RTL, the employee has been transferred away from the Ducal Family to another department. It is understood that the employee requested the…
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