Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II announced during her New Year’s speech that she plans to abdicate after 52 years and pass the throne to her son, Crown Prince Frederik, Associated Press reports.
The 83-year-old queen, Europe’s longest-reigning living monarch, cited recent back surgery as a factor in her decision. She will step down on January 14, the anniversary of her accession to the throne in 1972 at the age of 31 following the death of her father, King Frederik IX.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen paid tribute to the queen, praising her lifelong dedication and efforts for the kingdom. Crown Prince Frederik will become the new king, and Crown Princess Mary will become queen.
