Queen Margrethe II of Denmark surprised in 2022 by stripping four of her grandchildren of their prince titles. Nikolás, Félix, Henrik, and Isabella lost the distinction and became Counts of Monpezat starting in 2023. The measure was intended to allow them to lead a simpler life, but it caused discomfort within the family.
Now, King Frederik X has taken a different step, coinciding with the monarch's 57th birthday. On May 26, at Amalienborg Palace, he decorated Nikolás and Félix with the Grand Cross of the Order of Dannebrog. This gesture restores their visibility in the royal family and marks a change from his mother's policy.
The Order of Dannebrog is one of Denmark's most prestigious and was created in 1671 by King Christian V to reward outstanding service to the country. The Grand Cross, which Nikolás and Félix now hold, is awarded for civil, military, artistic, or scientific merit. It has not yet been explained why they were chosen for this distinction.
Margrethe II's decision and the family's reaction
In September 2022, Margrethe II announced the loss of titles for her four grandchildren. She wanted them to be able to live without the obligations of the Royal House and to shape their lives freely. For this reason, they became counts, although they keep their places in the line of succession.
Prince Joachim, father of the young people, publicly expressed his sadness. He said it was painful to see his children "mistreated" in that way. He also criticized that the Royal House did not inform them with enough notice, and that he only had five days to prepare.
Alexandra of Frederiksborg, mother of Nikolás and Félix, also showed her discontent. She stated that the family was confused and in shock. The children did not understand why their royal identity was being taken away, which affected everyone emotionally.
A gesture of reconciliation and new doubts in the air
Frederik X's gesture represents an approach and support for his nephews. The decoration not only gives them a more visible role, but also shows the public a cordial family relationship. For now, it is not known whether Henrik and Isabella will receive similar recognition.
The decision has caused divided opinions in Denmark. Some see it as a fair act full of goodwill toward Joachim's children. Others, however, interpret it as a challenge to the decisions of Margrethe II, his predecessor.
On social media, the public have also reacted. Comments praise the king for having "his heart in the right place." Others say that Nikolás and Félix "are the best representatives of the royal family" and that they should never have lost their titles.
In 2016, Margrethe II restricted state allowances to only one direct heir, Christian. His prince brothers had to seek income by other means, despite keeping the title. This cut caused debates about the role and privileges of the modern royal family.
With Frederik X's accession to the throne in January 2024, it is expected that he will review some of his mother's policies. His gesture with Nikolás and Félix indicates that there could be changes in the family structure. However, it remains to be seen whether he will reverse the economic or title limitations for the rest of his grandchildren.
The Royal House remains in a process of adapting to current times. The story of Prince Joachim's children shows the tensions between tradition and modernity. The coming months will be key for the future of the Danish monarchy and the position of its members.