Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg has announced his decision to step down from the throne, paving the way for his son, Prince Guillaume, to become the nation’s next sovereign in October 2025.
The emotional announcement came during the 69-year-old monarch’s final annual Christmas address, marking the end of a 24-year reign. Prince Guillaume, 43, who has been serving as Lieutenant-Représentant since October, will officially ascend as Grand Duke on 3 October 2025.
This historic abdication follows a similar move earlier this year by Queen Margrethe of Denmark, who ended her 52-year reign, allowing her son, Crown Prince Frederik, to become king in January.
Henri’s Reflections on His Reign
In his heartfelt speech, Grand Duke Henri reflected on his tenure since his ascension on 7 October 2000, following his father’s abdication.
“When I look back today, after almost 25 years, I do so with deep gratitude and humility,” he shared.
“It has been a period during which Luxembourg has made much progress, and I am pleased to have been part of that journey with you, alongside the Grand Duchess. It has been a quarter of a century filled with challenges, opportunities, and hopes for a better future: technological and economic advancements, social changes, and moments of reflection that brought us closer together as a nation.”
Henri emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity, noting, “The strength, and indeed the future, of our society lies in its ability to show solidarity.”
A Generational Transition
Acknowledging the need for generational change, Henri said, “It’s a natural process that has its raison d’être. On our last National Day, I announced the appointment of Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant-Représentant. Now, he and Princess Stéphanie are ready to take on the responsibilities of leading our country.”
The Grand Duke expressed confidence in his son and daughter-in-law, saying, “I know they will do their utmost to contribute to the well-being of our country.”
The Royal Family
Prince Guillaume married Stéphanie de Lannoy in 2012, and the couple has two young sons—Prince Charles, four, and Prince François, born in March 2023.
Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa are also parents to Prince Félix, Prince Louis, Princess Alexandra, and Prince Sébastien, and they have eight grandchildren, including Princess Alexandra’s daughter, Victoire, born in May 2023.
In closing, Henri shared warm wishes: “Together with the Grand Duchess, Prince Guillaume, Princess Stéphanie, and all our children, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year.”
