It’s an historic evening here in the Netherlands. Queen Beatrix made a speech on tv and radio tonight at 7 pm to say that she is abdicating on April 30. Those of you who are familiar with Queen’s Day will recognize the date. Prince Willem-Alexander will take the throne that day.
Queen Beatrix became queen in 1980 and is one of the longest reigning monarchs in current times. This will be the first time we’ve had a king in three generations.
It’s been fascinating to watch it in real time, even if the speech was technically prerecorded. Royal history has primarily been limited to marriages and births for me, and those were UK-related.
Not surprisingly, it’s big news here. TV coverage is ongoing and Facebook and Twitter are alight. Twitter here wasn’t even working well, since I’m sure there was so much traffic, since the Dutch are very involved with Twitter. Most of the trending topics were related to the royal family and the abdication.
A Flamingo in Utrecht 
So she finally made her decision. Not sure what all the fuss is about, as our royal family has no siginificant politcal power and are merely there for ceremonial purposes, besides her abdication has been expected for some years now. For me personally, the institute of monarchy is a bit archaic and out of date to be honest. So I won’t be glued to my tv just yet 🙂
She had a good innings, as the Brits say, and this is a good age at which to retire. I remember her as a small girl, attending the birthday party of a childhood friend. That was the last time I saw her: more than 60 years ago. Waar blijft de tijd? I do wish the British royal house could be equally sensible, but when the monarch is the head of the Church abdication is a more complicated matter.
Just seen this on the noos; it is big noos too. Am I right in thinking she was much loved/respected?
Thanks for passing on the news, very interesting! A king, after all these years.
Saw a very funny comment with a picture of Queen Elizabeth and Charles, with her saying Don’t even think it. But when all is said and done, it is a good time and a decision to make, and to pass on the responsibilities to the next generation.
She was much loved and respected, but more by the older generation. Princess Maxima has stolen her limelight for the younger generation I’m afraid 🙂
It kind of came as a big surprise. I was not expecting it at all. Maybe I just missed all the news.