Interesting news from the Dutch royal family yesterday, as Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands announced her abdication. Her son, Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange will become King.
Koningin Beatrix, who celebrates her 75th birthday tomorrow made the announcement on television saying that she was convinced ”that it is time for the responsibility for our country to pass to a new generation”. The Queen has ruled for 33 years, and passes the crown to her eldest son, who is 45 years old and will become William IV. He and his wife Princess Maxima have three daughters, Catharina-Amalia, Alexia and Ariane.
Queen Beatrix will officially abdicate 30 April 2013. On that day Willem-Alexander will become the new king and will be sworn in and inaugurated in the Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam.
Interesting post – I must have missed this on the news. I suppose abdication is only like retirement – and not a dereliction of duty. It is a move that can benefit both generations, as well as the country.
Yes, agreed- Queen Beatrix made a point of saying in her speech that she was abdicating “not because my duties are becoming too burdensome” but because she thought it was the right thing to do, and the right time to do it.