King Harald marked his 88th birthday today with an intimate celebration at the Royal Palace, surrounded by family and friends.
A private celebration and a heartfelt surprise
The festivities at the palace were kept private, yet the atmosphere was filled with warmth and admiration. In a surprise gesture, palace employees used the occasion to honor their leader. As the King was led to a window overlooking the palace square, he witnessed a stunning display: torchlights arranged in the shape of hearts illuminating the Slottsplassen.
Queen Sonja even captured the moment on her mobile phone, ensuring that the heartfelt tribute would be remembered.
Rising public support for the Monarchy
The celebration comes amid growing public confidence in the Norwegian Monarchy. Earlier today, NRK reported an upward trend in monarchical support—a trend most pronounced among young adults. In a recent survey conducted by Norstat for NRK, 69% of respondents affirmed their support for the monarchy, a notable increase from levels recorded before Christmas and from the low point of last September.
Furthermore, 61% of those surveyed believe that King Harald should not abdicate. Reflecting on the significance of this support, commentator Harald Stanghelle remarked:
“When you are 88 years old and 61% tell you that you must continue in your job, you cannot receive a clearer pat on the back from the Norwegian people,” says Harald Stanghelle, author of the book “The King Tells” and commentator at Aftenposten.
Reflections on the King’s workload and health
Last year, King Harald spent his birthday on holiday in Malaysia—a trip that turned unexpectedly serious when he fell ill and had to be evacuated on a medical flight. After nearly eight weeks of recovery, the King resumed his duties, although his workload saw significant adjustments. According to NRK’s review of his official calendar and figures from the palace, he undertook 317 work assignments last year—114 fewer than the previous year, marking a 26% decrease.
In the official calendar for 2024, the king is listed for 197 appointments, including audiences, council meetings, formal receptions, and regional visits. Notably, 161 of these official engagements were held at the Royal Palace, with only 7 conducted outside Oslo. Half of the official assignments—99 in total—were carried out in conjunction with Crown Prince Haakon (Kronprins Haakon).
Balancing Royal duties
King Harald’s commitment to his role is evident in the distribution of royal duties. Last year, only Crown Prince Haakon surpassed his workload, handling 529 assignments, while Queen Sonja and Crown Princess Mette-Marit undertook 236 and 203, respectively. However, with the king now 88, the queen turning 88 this summer, and Princess Astrid at 93, concerns about the royal family’s future workload have emerged.
Commentator Bjørn Bendz noted that discussions within the palace suggest King Harald could benefit from moderating his schedule, though he remains dedicated. Meanwhile, the royal household has refrained from commenting on public speculation regarding potential adjustments.
