Harald V funeral: Huge crowds in Norway as Prince William joins royalty at King Harald's funeral
Norway has held the funeral for King Harald V, who passed away at age 89 after a 35-year reign. The event was attended by international royalty, though the monarchy currently faces declining public support due to recent family scandals.
Why it matters
The transition of power and the decline in public approval ratings highlight the challenges modern European monarchies face in maintaining relevance and public trust.
Norway's King Harald V died last month aged 89 after 35 years on the throne.
He will be widely remembered as a popular and reforming figure who modernised the monarchy, broke with tradition by marrying a commoner and served as a unifying figure at Norway's most difficult moments.
Royal observers say he was down-to-earth, respected and beloved, describing him as a "grandfather" of the nation and the "people's king" - a title also used by his father King Olav V.
But more recently, King Harald and his family have faced personal challenges and scandal.
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