Grand Duke Henri's unexpected announcement to step back from his duties, paving the way for his son, Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume, to assume the role of 'Lieutenant-Représentant' in October, marks a historic transition for Luxembourg's monarchy.
Speculation had been circulating, but it's now official: Grand Duke Henri is stepping back from his duties. In October of this year, his son, Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume, will take over the governorship of the country together with his wife, Hereditary Grand Duchess Stéphanie.
"With all my love and trust, I wish him with all my heart a very happy hand", Grand Duke Henri said in an emotional statement to his heir.
It was a surprising announcement that was not included in the Grand Duke's speech, which had been sent to the press beforehand. As a result, the news remained confidential until Sunday morning.
Concluding his speech, the Grand Duke expressed his desire to announce this decision alongside his wife Maria Teresa, his son Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume, and his wife Stéphanie.
Grand Duke Henri will retain his official title, as this is not yet an abdication. Instead, he will be represented by his son Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume.
The title of 'Lieutenant-Représentant' ('Representative Lieutenant'), which Guillaume will assume in October, marks the beginning of a transition towards succession. However, the actual change of throne may take up to three years to be completed.
In October 2025, the Grand Ducal couple will celebrate their 25th anniversary on the throne.
Prime Minister Frieden reacts
In conversation with RTL, Prime Minister Luc Frieden on Sunday acknowledged that he had been discussing the transition with Grand Duke Henri for some time. The move has my "full support", Frieden noted, while further voicing confidence that the entire Grand Ducal family will carry out the transition in "exemplary manner".
When asked whether there was a specific reason for the announcement to be made at this time, the prime minister explained that his meetings with Grand Duke Henri were confidential, but underlined that the decision represented a "normal, yet historic" moment for Luxembourg's monarchy.
