Stockholm is filled with ceremonies and audiences as the King turns 80 today. At the same time, King Carl XVI Gustaf clarifies how he sees his role going forward.
On Walpurgis Night, Sweden's head of state, King Carl XVI, 80 years. The day is marked by an extensive celebration in Stockholm, where both institutions and the public participate. The program begins with a thanksgiving service in the Royal Palace Church, continues with a military parade in the courtyard and culminates in the public's tributes at midday.
Official receptions will follow in the afternoon, before the celebrations end with a gala dinner with invited guests from Sweden and abroad.
The question of the future at the center
The anniversary comes at the same time as the question of the king's future is being raised. In an interview with SVT On the eve of his birthday, he makes a clear statement about his intention to leave office.
– I can do nothing else, he says, It is said that you do not do that. You stay as long as you can and are in good health. It's part of the job.
The statements come at a time when several European monarchs have chosen to abdicate, which has led to the issue also being discussed in Sweden.
Personal experiences are highlighted
In connection with the anniversary, the King also recalled a personal experience from his youth in an interview with Swedish Radio. While traveling, he met a Swedish man abroad who sought contact - not for practical help, but to speak his language and feel a connection to his homeland. The man was described as someone who had lived far from Sweden for a long time, but who still had ties to the country.
The story highlights how identity and belonging do not disappear just because you are far away. The language, the memories, and the feeling of belonging somewhere can last a lifetime. In the interview, the meeting emerges as a concrete picture of how strong the bond to Sweden can be - even for those who left the country long ago.
Public support - and further discussion
At the same time, recent surveys show that confidence in the King remains high. One Novus survey states that 69% of Swedes think he is doing a good job, which is an increase from previous years.
In parallel, the debate on the role and future of the monarchy continues. The jubilee thus focuses on both continuity and change, with the King's decision to continue in office being a central part of the overall picture.
Even more waste of taxpayers' money. We will pay. They will party.
Waste of tax money occurs everywhere in Sweden, in the Government, the Municipalities, so the King's apanage is a pittance if you compare, and the King opens doors for Swedish companies abroad that the Government, or Municipalities do not, in addition, Sweden has a history that is very much about Kings for better or worse, but as a true Nationalist, I believe that Sweden needs a king, one who can unite the country in a crisis.