Abdication of Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg facts for kids
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On 3 October 2025, Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg, stepped down from his role as the leader of Luxembourg. He passed the throne to his oldest son, Guillaume. This important event took place at the Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg City. This change marked the start of a new era for the country.
Contents
A New Chapter for Luxembourg: Grand Duke Henri Steps Down
Preparing for Leadership: The Lieutenant-Representative
In Luxembourg's royal family, it is a tradition for the ruler to prepare their heir for the throne. Before stepping down, the monarch often appoints their future successor as a "Lieutenant-Representative." This means the heir takes on many of the monarch's official duties. It helps them get ready to become the next Grand Duke or Grand Duchess.
For example, in 1961, Prince Jean became Lieutenant-Representative. His mother, Charlotte, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, was preparing him for the throne. She later stepped down in 1964. Similarly, Grand Duke Jean made his son, Henri, Lieutenant-Representative in 1998. Henri then became Grand Duke in 2000. This tradition ensures a smooth transition of leadership.
The Grand Duke's Decision to Retire
For some time, people wondered if Grand Duke Henri would retire. In April 2024, after Margrethe II of Denmark stepped down from her throne, Henri spoke about his own future. He shared that he planned to retire at some point. He explained that these plans had been discussed within his family.
On 23 June 2024, during his official birthday speech, Grand Duke Henri made a big announcement. He told everyone that he would begin transferring his duties to his eldest son, Prince Guillaume. This news was quite a surprise to many. Henri said he would appoint Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant-Representative in October. He expressed his full love and confidence in his son.
Luc Frieden, the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, called this announcement "the beginning of a next chapter." He had been talking with Henri about this for a while. They agreed that the national holiday was the perfect day to share the news. On 8 October 2024, Prince Guillaume officially became Lieutenant-Representative. He was sworn in at the Grand Ducal Palace and then at the Chamber of Deputies. Grand Duke Henri said he wanted to give Guillaume "a lot more responsibility." He felt it was time for him to "slow down."
The year 2024 is drawing to a close, and Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on the past year. This time, I do so with great emotion, as it is the last time that I will deliver the Christmas speech as Head of State.
On 24 December 2024, during his annual Christmas speech, Grand Duke Henri shared the exact date of his retirement. He announced that he would step down on 3 October 2025. Prince Guillaume had been preparing for this role since October. Henri spoke of his "deep gratitude" for his 25 years as Grand Duke. He and his wife, Maria Teresa, were happy to have served the country. He felt it was a "natural process" for his generation to retire. He also expressed his trust in Guillaume and his wife, Stéphanie. He knew they would work hard for Luxembourg's well-being.
A Historic Day: The Abdication Ceremony
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On 3 October 2025, at 10:00 AM, Grand Duke Henri officially signed the document to step down. This took place at the Grand Ducal Palace. His close family was there to witness this important moment. Even some foreign royals, like King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, and King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians, attended.
Prime Minister Luc Frieden also signed the document. He gave a short speech, praising Grand Duke Henri. He called Henri "the symbol of Luxembourg" and its independence. Many people gathered outside the palace. They watched the royal guests walk to the nearby Chamber of Deputies.
At 11:00 AM, Guillaume took an oath at the Chamber of Deputies. This oath, required by Luxembourg's constitution, officially marked the start of his reign. He was now Grand Duke Guillaume. Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa were present. Their five-year-old grandson, Prince Charles, was also there. With his father becoming Grand Duke, Prince Charles was now first in line to the throne. He became the youngest heir apparent in the world.
After the ceremony, Grand Duke Guillaume and Grand Duchess Stéphanie appeared on the palace balcony. They were joined by their two sons, Charles and François. Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa also joined them. The crowd cheered for the new Grand Ducal couple.
Important Guests and Well Wishes
Many important people attended the "Trounwiessel" (Changing of the Throne) events on 3 October 2025. Members of the Grand Ducal Family were present. This included Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, as well as Guillaume's brothers and sister.
Leaders from other countries also came to celebrate. The King and Queen of the Belgians and the King and Queen of the Netherlands were among the foreign royals. Important Luxembourgish leaders, like Prime Minister Luc Frieden and the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Claude Wiseler, were also there.
After the event, many countries sent their congratulations to Grand Duke Guillaume.
- Denmark: King Frederik X and Queen Mary sent their "warmest congratulations."
- Norway: King Harald V also sent his "warmest congratulations and best wishes."
- Sweden: King Carl XVI Gustaf congratulated Grand Duke Guillaume. He mentioned their cooperation in the World Scout Foundation. He looked forward to strengthening ties between their countries.
- Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV sent his "sincere best wishes." He joined "in the joy of an entire nation."
See also
In Spanish: Abdicación de Enrique de Luxemburgo para niños
