Federico X: A new king for Denmark who seeks to modernize the monarchy.

The year 2024 has marked a significant milestone in the history of Denmark with the ascension to the throne of Frederick X, who took on the role following the surprise abdication of his mother, Queen Margrethe. The queen had maintained notable popularity throughout her five-decade reign, and her son has managed, in just one year, to sustain the same level of support among the Danes, a fact that has laid the groundwork for his future as king. In this context, Frederick and his consort, Queen Mary, find themselves at a crossroads: how to imprint their own mark on a monarchy with a rich history. Historian Lars Hovbakke Sørensen highlights the difference in styles between mother and son. While Queen Margrethe was characterized by her artistic and intellectual approach, Frederick X presents himself as a more informal figure, allowing him to connect with a younger audience. This closeness seems to be a key factor in the high level of support for the monarchy, which remains around 80%, despite 15% of the population identifying as republicans. Since his proclamation, Frederick and Mary have implemented several reforms within the royal household, emphasizing greater transparency in the receiving of gifts and a reduction in the number of sponsorships involving the royal family. These decisions aim to modernize the perception of the monarchy and adapt to the contemporary concerns of the Danes. Among these concerns, the fight against climate change, sustainability, and gender equality have become pillars of their royal agenda. Their commitment to the autonomous territory of Greenland has also marked the first year of their reign. The royal couple has visited Greenland, reflecting its historical and cultural importance to Denmark. In his New Year’s speech, Frederick echoed this connection by mentioning Greenland and the Faroe Islands, emphasizing the unity of the Danish realm. The modification of their coat of arms, which now highlights these territories more prominently, is a symbolic gesture that underscores this intention to strengthen ties with their autonomous areas. International interest in Greenland, particularly from powers like the United States and China, adds an additional dimension to this relationship. Sørensen explains that the king, with his new coat of arms, is not seeking to make a political statement but rather to reaffirm the bond with these strategic territories through a symbolic gesture. This focus on geopolitics highlights the need for a monarchy that is not only a symbol but also a relevant actor in the international context. Frederick's emotional connection to his role as king has manifested in moments of great symbolic weight, such as his marriage to Mary and his proclamation. The emotion he has displayed publicly reveals his commitment to the Danish people and his role as a leader. In his New Year’s speech, he expressed his gratitude to the Danes, acknowledging the importance of the support he has received and the pressure to live up to expectations. However, the legacy of Queen Margrethe and the circumstances surrounding her abdication continue to generate interest and debate in Denmark. The unexpected decision to abdicate, a rare event in the country’s history, has left many in a state of reflection. The reasons, which include health issues and the desire for Frederick and Mary not to become an aging royal couple, raise questions among the populace. The context of the abdication has also been marked by rumors and speculation about Frederick's relationships with other figures, adding a layer of intrigue to the transition. Despite this, the monarchy has managed to maintain its image, largely thanks to the legacy of Queen Margrethe and the efforts of her son in this first year of reign. The New Year’s speech, which has been a tradition in Denmark for 150 years, serves not only as a simple formality but as a reflection of how the king perceives society and the global situation. In this sense, Frederick X did not hesitate to address complex issues such as international conflicts and the importance of maintaining unity in times of uncertainty, demonstrating his ability to be a leader aware of the realities facing the world. As Frederick and Mary continue their efforts to modernize the Danish monarchy and connect with their people, the future looks promising. With their focus on transparency, sustainability, and connection with autonomous territories, the new king seeks not only to uphold his mother's legacy but also to adapt it to the new times in which the monarchy must evolve. The story of Frederick X of Denmark is just beginning, and the Danish people watch with anticipation for the next chapters of his reign.