Norway’s King Harald V, one of Europe’s longest-serving monarchs and a widely respected national figure, died on Friday at the age of 89.
The Royal Palace said Harald died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital at 6:35am local time. He had been receiving treatment for a bacterial infection after being admitted to hospital on August 17.
Harald became king in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V. He remained on the throne for more than three decades and continued performing official duties despite several health problems.
Crown Prince Haakon to Become King
Harald’s death means Crown Prince Haakon, 53, will become Norway’s fourth king since the country gained independence from Sweden in 1905.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Haakon’s wife, is expected to become queen.
The royal transition comes as Norway’s monarchy faces several challenges, including controversies surrounding members of the royal family. Despite declining support for the institution in some polls, Harald himself remained highly popular among Norwegians.
A Modern and Popular Monarch
Harald was known for gradually modernising Norway’s monarchy and maintaining a close connection with ordinary citizens.
He became particularly admired for his response to national tragedies. After the 2011 terrorist attacks that killed 77 people, Harald delivered an emotional speech in which he stressed that freedom was stronger than fear.
He also regularly visited communities affected by floods, storms and other disasters, often appearing in practical clothing rather than formal royal attire.
Harald strongly supported tolerance and diversity. In a notable 2016 speech, he emphasised that Norway was home to people with different backgrounds, beliefs and sexual orientations.
Childhood Marked by War
Born on February 21, 1937, Harald was the first Norwegian royal heir born in the country in almost 570 years.
His childhood was disrupted by the Second World War. When Nazi Germany invaded Norway in 1940, the young prince travelled with his mother and sisters to Sweden and later the United States.
He spent several years in the US and met President Franklin D. Roosevelt on numerous occasions.
After returning to Norway in 1945, Harald attended state schools and later developed a lifelong passion for sailing and nature.
A King Who Changed Royal Tradition
Harald’s 1968 marriage to Sonja Haraldsen, a commoner, broke with traditional royal expectations. The couple remained married throughout his reign, with Sonja serving as queen.
Harald also became known for his sporting interests and represented Norway in several Olympic sailing competitions.
Despite occasional controversies over royal finances and property expenses, he retained strong public support and rejected calls for abdication.
His death now marks the end of a major era for Norway’s constitutional monarchy.
Crown Prince Haakon will inherit the throne at a time when the royal family faces increased public scrutiny, making his accession an important new chapter for the country.
