These are not good times for King Frederik and Queen Mary after it came to light what has happened: They are being heavily criticized. Since his ascent to the throne, King Frederik has drawn criticism for his actions shrouded in controversy. Actions that have dragged his wife, Queen Mary, despite her efforts to distance herself from her husband's scandals.
Every public appearance of the couple is scrutinized, and this has led to the couple being strongly criticized. Their informal behavior at official events has sparked debate among experts and the Danish population, who have not forgotten their previous queen, Queen Margrethe.
King Frederik and Queen Mary criticized for breaking protocol
It has been a year since King Frederik and Queen Mary ascended to the throne following Queen Margrethe's abdication. No one expected this turn in the Danish monarchy, and there are still those who have not been able to assimilate this sudden change. Especially because the differences between both reigns are very notable.
The current monarchs have established a more modern monarchy, and this has led them to receive numerous criticisms. Most of them for breaking protocol or leading a life too far from the institutional values of austerity. For example, during his proclamation, Frederik kissed Mary on the mouth and waved to the public, gestures inappropriate in that solemn context.
This is explained by protocol expert María José Gómez y Verdú, pointing out that these acts "break the classic mold of the European king." "He has challenged the established protocol," says Gómez y Verdú.
King Frederik has been observed adopting informal postures, such as standing with his legs apart, which contrasts with the expected rigidity at official events. These actions have been seen as a lack of respect for the institution, and therefore, they are calling for the cancellation of Frederik and Queen Mary.
Mary of Denmark hasn't escaped criticism for certain attitudes at institutional events either. On one occasion, she went ahead of her husband at an event when it is the king who should precede her. This incident was interpreted as a lack of knowledge or respect for the established norms in the monarchy.
A large majority believes that the monarchy should modernize, but with moderation. The royal couple seems to have skipped this, completely altering Queen Margrethe's reign.
King Frederik and Queen Mary continue to gain detractors
In addition to their protocol failures, King Frederik and Queen Mary are gaining detractors for the lack of trust they convey. Since the king was caught with Genoveva in Madrid, his image has been severely damaged. The population rallied around Mary, but her cold and distant attitude has not gone unnoticed by anyone.
The international press has reported tensions between Frederik and Mary, fueled by rumors of infidelity that seem to persist. These speculations have affected the public image of the royal couple, raising concerns about the stability of their marriage.
The lifestyle of the Royal Family is another point of conflict. They are accused of excessive public spending on travel and events, and a noticeable reduction in official acts. In this regard, the expert emphasizes that every gesture and word of a king carries a symbolic weight that must be carefully considered.
Despite the criticisms, there are sectors that value the closeness and spontaneity of the royal couple, seeing them as a more modern and accessible monarchy. However, the popular sentiment is that many miss Queen Margrethe and are calling for her return.