Norway: New King Haakon makes first speech to the nation
King Haakon VIII has delivered his first address to the nation following the death of his father, King Harald V. He pledged to uphold Norway's democratic values while honoring his father's legacy as a reformer.
Why it matters
This marks a significant transition in the Norwegian monarchy, signaling continuity and stability for the nation during a period of national mourning.
New monarch Haakon VIII paid an emotional tribute to his late father, Harald V, in his first address to the nation. Vowing to follow his own path, Haakon pledged to uphold Norway’s democracy, unity and inclusive values.
https://p.dw.com/p/5Jd5H Norway's new King Haakon VIII during his first speech to the nation at the Royal Palace in Oslo on August 29, 2026. Image: Heiko Junge/NTB/AFP Advertisement King Haakon VIII of Norway paid tribute to his late father, King Harald V, calling him "such a wonderful papa" in his first address to the nation as monarch.
"Above all, you were a person who remained committed to your values and dedicated to your duties," Haakon said Saturday in a televised speech. "We greatly mourn his loss. At the same time, it gives us consolation and strength to know that there are so many who are grieving with us."
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