Prince Christian of Denmark has taken a solemn oath to protect his country’s constitution.

The prince, second in line to the throne, took the pledge just weeks after turning 18 and coming of age.

Since reaching his majority, his constitutional role has altered.

Now that he has promised to protect the constitution, he can act as regent if required when his grandmother, Queen Margrethe, is abroad or ill.

It also means that should Christian now succeed to the throne, he would not require a regent to reign on his behalf.

The prince made his pledge at a special meeting of the Council of State held at the Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen.

Queen Margrethe was present as was Prince Christian’s father, Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark ,as well as the Danish government.

Christian’s mother, Crown Princess Mary, did not attend the Council of State but was at the palace as her son made his historic promise. She later joined the family for official photographs marking the occasion.

Prince Christian turned 18 on October 15th 2023 when he greeted a huge crowd at Amalienborg. He later attended a gala dinner, given by Queen Margrethe, which also celebrated Danish youth achievements as well as the coming of age of the country’s future king.