Mere months after ascending to the throne amidst global acclaim, King Frederik and Queen Mary have now come under fire from a “displeased” public, clamouring for more visibility and engagement.
The controversy erupted as King Frederik and Queen Mary embarked on a seemingly innocent Easter holiday with their four children.
What was intended as a family getaway has morphed into a heated debate within Denmark, with citizens expressing discontent over the perceived lack of public appearances and engagements by the royal couple since their coronation.
Royal commentator Julia Melchior weighed in on the matter, highlighting the importance of visibility and public engagement for monarchs.
“The Danish media have reported that many people are displeased that the Royal Family is on holiday for the second time since the succession,” Melchior told GB News.
“It is being observed meticulously that the royal diary hasn’t shown many activities since the succession.
“Also, since the succession to the throne, the Royal Family has gone on holiday twice.”
In defense of the royal couple, Melchior argues that it’s “still early days” in their reign, and opportunities to appear in public as King and Queen have been limited.
“Of course, a large part of the King and Queen’s work takes place behind closed wall,” Melchior added.
“So, the fact that they do not work in public does not mean that they do not work at all.”
As discontent simmers over the perceived absence of King Frederik and Queen Mary from public life, mere months ago overwhelming joy and enthusiasm swept across Denmark during the pair’s historic coronation.
The captivating ascension ceremony took place just weeks after the announcement of Queen Margrethe II’s abdication, concluding her remarkable 52-year reign as Europe’s longest-serving monarch.
Upon signing the abdication declaration, Queen Margrethe gracefully rose and gestured for Frederik to assume her seat, proclaiming “God save the King” before gracefully exiting the room. Set against the majestic backdrop of Christiansborg Castle, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen officially declared Frederik as the new King of Denmark, exclaiming, “Long live his majesty King Frederik the 10th.”
Sharing the balcony with Frederik was Queen Mary, alongside their children: 18-year-old Christian, the heir to the throne, 16-year-old Princess Isabelle, and the 13-year-old twins, Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent.
Addressing the thousands who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the new monarch, King Frederik shared his vision of being a unifying monarch for the future, a role he had meticulously prepared for throughout his entire life.
“My hope is to be a unifying King of tomorrow,” he told the crowd.
“It’s an assignment I’ve been preparing for my entire life.
“It’s a responsibility I’m taking on with respect, pride and immense joy.”
King Frederik said he started this new journey comforted by the fact that he had his wife and family by his side.
“I need all the support I can get from my beloved wife, my family and from God,” he said.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, Queen Mary and King Frederik sealed the moment with a tender kiss on the balcony, prompting the crowd to erupt in cheers while the Danish national anthem resonated through the capital.