King Haakon sworn in as Norway’s new monarch

Norway's King Haakon VIII took his oath before parliament on Tuesday.

Norway’s King Haakon VIII took his oath before parliament on Tuesday. The ceremony followed the death of his father, King Harald. Haakon pledged to uphold the country’s constitution and laws. It was the latest step in a series of royal transition ceremonies.

King Harald died last Friday at the age of 89. Since then, tens of thousands of Norwegians have visited the royal palace. Many left flowers, drawings, candles, and flags in tribute. Citizens have widely praised Harald’s warmth and inclusive nature. In his first address as sovereign, Haakon called his father a wonderful man.

Public support for the monarchy remains strong despite the transition. A Norstat poll for broadcaster NRK found 72% back the institution. Only 20% favour a republic or another system of government. The survey was conducted on Tuesday, the first since Harald’s passing. An earlier Norstat poll in May had shown support at just 64%.

Queen Mette-Marit, Haakon’s wife, was expected to stand beside him. The 53-year-old is recovering from a lung transplant she underwent in June. Queen Sonja had similarly stood by Harald during his 1991 oath. However, Mette-Marit withdrew from Tuesday’s ceremony due to complications.

Her doctor explained the situation in a palace statement. Pulmonologist Are Holm said complications are common after lung transplants. He noted the queen had faced similar issues before, including that day. As a precaution, she remained under medical observation throughout Tuesday.

Other royals attended in her place, including Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 22. Prince Sverre Magnus, 20, and grandmother Queen Sonja, 89, were also present. Haakon became king automatically the moment his father died. Norway will hold no formal coronation, since the tradition ended in 1908.