Queen Margrethe Speech Abdicates Responsibility

A Queen Margrethe speech in Copenhagen has announced the Queen's abdication from Denmark's throne after 52 years as Monarch. In her annual New Year speech to the country's 6 million population the 83-year old Queen declared that her son, Crown Prince Frederik, will become the next King Frederik X.

Abdications can't be an easy matter for a monarchy. Certainly Queen Elizabeth II wasn't one to even consider the matter. National memories of the last abdication crisis were never that far away. Yet, after 52 years on the Danish throne Queen Margrethe has decided the time is right. So, we wish her well.

Speaking to camera and using her own script, held very close, the Queen relayed her abdication announcement in clipped and formal speech. Very elegantly done, indeed. Many retirement or farewell speeches become a bit emotional. But this wasn't one of those. Because the Queen remained as steadfast as ever.

Clarity and Decisiveness In This Queen Margrethe Speech

Her people will probably appreciate the clarity of her words. Not least because there's a quick turn-around in the throne room with the new King Frederik X taking over in two weeks time. The sheer clarity and detail reminds us of the obfuscation and hesitancy in the Emperor Akihito speech of 2016 when he reflected on possibilities and outcomes, yet announced nothing. What a contrast between the two speeches.

When you're ready to prepare a farewell or retirement speech, don't forget that we have all the tools and advice you'll need. Because with more than 100 top public speaking tips and videos you'll have plenty to work with. And, when the time is right, then please don't hesitate to get in touch about speech training or coaching.