Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg officially announced his abdication during his Christmas broadcast, setting the date for the transition of power to his son, Prince Guillaume, on October 3, 2025. This marked the end of Henri's nearly 25-year reign, making him the second European monarch to step down this year, following Queen Margrethe of Denmark.
During the heartfelt address on December 24, 2024, the 69-year-old monarch reflected on his lengthy service to the Grand Duchy. "Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on the past year. This time, I do so with great emotion, as it is the last time I will deliver the Christmas speech as Head of State," he stated. Henri expressed pride and gratitude for the progress made during his reign, which began with his accession to the throne on October 7, 2000.
Henri's message encapsulated both the achievements of his tenure and the need for generational change. "It's a natural process... This also applies to me,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of allowing the next generation to take the lead. He firmly placed his faith in Prince Guillaume, who has been preparing intensively for his new role, recently taking on duties as Lieutenant-Représentant. "I know they will do their utmost to contribute to the well-being of our country," Henri shared, indicating his trust and support for his son.
The abdication announcement also highlighted Prince Guillaume's recent appointment to the role of Lieutenant-Représentant, effective from October 8, 2024, which served as the first official step toward taking over the throne. This position enabled him to undertake some of his father's responsibilities leading up to the abdication.
Prince Guillaume, aged 43, is married to Princess Stéphanie de Lannoy, who he wed back in 2012. Together, they have two young sons, Prince Charles, born in 2020, and Prince François, who entered the world earlier this year. This royal family dynamic adds another layer of depth to the narrative surrounding the transition of power, as it ensures the continuation of the Grand Ducal legacy.
Reflecting on his reign, Henri shared, "When I look back today, after almost 25 years, I do so with deep gratitude and humility." He recounted the challenges and achievements Luxembourg faced as a nation, expressing his pride at having contributed to its advancements. "It has been a period during which Luxembourg has made much progress... The strength, and the future, of our society lies in its ability to show solidarity," he affirmed.
Henri's reign has encompassed significant social, technological, and economic progress, as well as moments of conflict and unity. He noted how these experiences brought the nation together and contributed to making Luxembourg more inviting and sustainable.
Henri’s emotional farewell was also marked by appreciation for his family, including Grand Duchess María Teresa. "Together with the Grand Duchess, Prince Guillaume, Princess Stéphanie, and all our children, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year," he concluded, hoping for bright future prospects for the royal family and the nation.
This historic announcement not only signifies the end of an era but also symbolizes hope and progression as Luxembourg prepares for the future under the leadership of Prince Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie. Their ascendance indicates continuity for the Grand Duchy, ensuring the legacy of the monarchy remains steadfast, adaptable, and rooted in the principles of solidarity and service to the people.
