Oslo, August 30: Norway is mourning the death of King Harald V, who died at the age of 89 after more than three decades on the throne.
His son, Crown Prince Haakon, automatically became King Haakon VIII following Harald’s death. In his first televised address as monarch, Haakon paid tribute to his father and thanked Norwegians for the outpouring of support.
Tens of thousands of people have gathered around the Royal Palace in Oslo to lay flowers and leave messages of condolence. Churches and public buildings across Norway have also opened spaces where citizens can pay their respects.
Harald V became king in 1991 and was widely regarded as a modernising monarch who maintained a close relationship with the Norwegian public. His reign included major national events and periods of tragedy in which his public speeches helped provide a sense of unity.
Haakon, 53, now begins his reign with Queen Mette-Marit beside him. Their daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, becomes Crown Princess.
Why it matters:
Although Norway’s monarchy is largely ceremonial, the transition represents an important national moment and the beginning of a new era for one of Europe’s long-standing royal institutions.