© Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT / AFP
Grand Duke Guillaume was sworn in as Luxembourg's new head of state on Friday morning, taking the constitutional oath before parliament in the Chamber of Deputies.
Luxembourg has entered a new era as Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume was formally sworn in as the nation's new head of state. The historic ceremony took place in the Chamber of Deputies at 11am on Friday, less than an hour after the abdication of his father, Grand Duke Henri, who stepped down following 25 years on the throne.
Guillaume, 43, is now the new sovereign of Luxembourg and the 10th person to hold the title of Grand Duke. He took the constitutional oath before parliament, pledging to uphold the Grand Duchy's laws and serve its people. Members of the government, parliamentarians, and dignitaries were present for the solemn occasion, which marks the smooth transition of power within Europe's only remaining Grand Duchy.
Educated in the United Kingdom and France, Guillaume studied political science and international relations, later complementing his training with military instruction at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He has long been groomed for the role of sovereign, having represented Luxembourg at official events both at home and abroad for more than two decades.
Known for his interest in social issues, culture, and economic development, Guillaume has focused much of his public work on promoting Luxembourg's innovative industries and supporting young entrepreneurs. He is also a patron of several charitable organisations, particularly those involved in education, inclusion, and disability rights.
He succeeds his father, Henri, who became Grand Duke in 2000 and abdicated on Friday morning in a ceremony at the Grand Ducal Palace.
Alongside Guillaume, Luxembourg's new Grand Duchess is Stéphanie, whom Guillaume married in 2012. The couple have two young sons, Prince Charles, born in 2020, and Prince François, born in 2023, ensuring the continuation of the grand-ducal line.
The accession of Grand Duke Guillaume is widely seen as both a moment of continuity and renewal for the Grand Duchy. With a younger generation stepping into the spotlight, the monarchy remains a central symbol of stability in the nation's constitutional and cultural life.
'I promise to always act in the interest of the country'
In his first official speech, Grand Duke Guillaume quoted his late great-grandmother Grand Duchess Charlotte: "I will live the life of my people, from whom which I wish to never be separated by any barrier. I will share in their joy and their suffering."
The monarchy, he said, had been a pillar of continuity for Luxembourg in difficult times. It embodies the principles of freedom and unity. Yesterday as today, the monarchy serves as a point of reference in times of crisis and provides support. He would fulfil the duties imposed on him by the Constitution with responsibility, integrity, and commitment.
Luxembourg's democracy, he said, needs strong institutions. The Grand Duke stated: "That is why I promise to always remain politically neutral and to defend our fundamental democratic principles."
Grand Duke Guillaume also addressed the challenges Luxembourg and the world are facing: geopolitical tensions, the spiral of disinformation that poses a threat to democracy, the impact of climate change, war, and poverty remain tragic constants.
But Luxembourg, he said, is well positioned to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. He hopes that people in Luxembourg will continue to work together in a responsible and social environment. Social stability is an asset for our society and our economy.
Another advantage for Luxembourg is its multicultural situation. He also specifically addressed the youth, whose lives are strongly impacted by technological progress. In the digital world, human connections must be highly valued. Interpersonal relationships are the foundation of community spirit.
He therefore called on both young and not-so-young people to get involved in volunteer work. In doing so, one contributes to social cohesion. He himself also wants to continue standing up for the weak and disadvantaged in the future.
