Succession to the Norwegian throne facts for kids

Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway

The line of succession to the Norwegian throne lists the people who can become the next head of state of Norway. It's like a special list that shows who is next in line to be King or Queen.

This list is set by Article 6 of the Norwegian Constitution. It was last changed in 1990. This change made it so that the oldest child, no matter if they are a boy or a girl, comes first in line. This rule applies to the grandchildren and future family members of King Harald V.

However, for the King's own children, an older rule from 1971 to 1990 still applies. This rule meant that boys came before girls. So, Crown Prince Haakon and his children are ahead of his older sister, Princess Märtha Louise, and her children.

Only children born within marriage to the King or the King's brothers and sisters, and their children, can be in line for the throne. Some older family members, like the King's elder sister, Princess Astrid, and her children, are not on the list. This is because of an even older rule from before 1971, which only allowed sons to inherit.

If there is no one left on the list to become King or Queen, the Storting (which is Norway's Parliament) can choose a new ruler. This is allowed by Articles 7 or 48 of the Constitution.

When a new monarch takes the throne and is old enough, they must take an oath. This is a special promise they make in front of the members of the Storting. This is written in Article 9 of the Constitution.

Who is Next in Line?

Haakon, the heir apparent, and his daughter, Ingrid Alexandra

Here is the current line of succession to the Norwegian throne:

See Also

In Spanish: Sucesión al trono de Noruega para niños

• Norwegian Law of Succession