Haakon VIII Swears Allegiance to Norwegian Constitution
On Tuesday, King Haakon VIII of Norway was formally inaugurated in a ceremony held at parliament, celebrating the beginning of his reign. At 53 years old, he pledged to uphold the nation's constitution, which primarily assigns a ceremonial role to the monarchy. His ascension followed the death of his father, King Harald V, who passed away at 89 last Friday. During the swearing-in, King Haakon vowed to lead Norway in accordance with its laws. Meanwhile, Queen Mette-Marit, also 53, was absent due to her recovery from a lung transplant earlier this year, which encountered some issues.
Key facts
- Haakon VIII swore allegiance to the Norwegian constitution on Tuesday.
- The oath took place in parliament's main chamber.
- Haakon became king after his father, Harald V, died on Friday at age 89.
- Queen Mette-Marit was absent due to recovery from a June 17 lung transplant.
- Dr. Are Holm of Oslo University Hospital commented on the queen's complications.
- The royal role in Norway is primarily symbolic.
- Haakon was dressed in a ceremonial uniform.
- The oath was the first major institutional step of his reign.
Entities
Institutions
- Norwegian Parliament
- Oslo University Hospital
Locations
- Norway