As Luxembourg was celebrating its National Day, Grand Duke Henri made an announcement that shook the royal world, as he ended his speech with the news that, starting October 1st 2024, his son, Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume, would be named Lieutenant-Représentant. 

This nomination is generally seen as a precursor to a process of abdication; it has already happened twice before, with both Grand Duchess Charlotte and Grand Duke Jean making this nomination for their successors two or three years before the actual abdication process was completed.

This announcement by Grand Duke Henri is sure to bring many changes to the current state of the family in the months to come. 

Starting of course with the change in lifestyle that will befall on Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume’s family: as he receives the regency, he will have increasing engagements related to State affairs, and the daily management of the Court. 

Princess Stéphanie will also see her life changed, with an increase of State duties, as well as a more prominent role in the life of the Grand Duchy. Most importantly, this will probably take time away from their two young children, Princes Charles and François, 4 and 1 and a half respectively. 

The eventual abdication of Grand Duke Henri and proclamation of Guillaume as Grand Duke will also mark a shift in the number of people working for the Grand Ducal family. 

It is expected that, just like Grand Duke Henri’s siblings, Prince Guillaume’s 4 younger siblings will also loose their public positions, only taking part in family events, like weddings and church services. 

However, given the young age of Guillaume and Stephanie’s two sons, some are arguing that a new reign will see some exceptions being made. It is possible that at least some of Guillaume’s siblings will keep working for the family – possibly the second of Henri’s children, Prince Felix. However, he has established a life and business away from the Grand Ducal court with his wife, Princess Claire, and their three children.

For now, a lot of adjustments must surely be going on behind the closed doors of the Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg City – changes that the public will see taking shape over the next few months and years.