Reaction to the Sussexes’ return to the UK, the birthdays of Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway and Gabriel of Belgium, changes to the succession law in Liechtenstein, and other royal news from the past week—in our weekly digest.
Harry and Meghan’s security after returning to the UK
William and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales, arrived at their Scottish residence, Balmoral, a few hours after news of the Sussexes’ decision to return to the UK was announced. British tabloids and several sources close to the royal court claim that the decision to return came as a surprise even to King Charles III. According to several publications, he learned of the news only a few days before the official announcement. Against this background, the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales at Balmoral, the royal family’s summer Scottish residence, is seen as a demonstration of the cohesion of the “working” part of the family.
In addition, in connection with the return of Harry and Meghan to the UK, one of the most pressing practical issues is being actively discussed: who will pay for their security.
Visit of Swedish monarchs to Finland
On August 21, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel went on a visit to Finland. The main purpose of the trip was to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Vaasa Court of Appeal. It was established in 1775 by decree of King Gustav III of Sweden. The Crown Princess and Prince spent about an hour in the courthouse. Victoria then planted a tree in Kaivopuisto Park as a memento of their visit. After interacting with local residents and touring a technology center focused on shipping and energy production, the couple went to a gala lunch. The trip was a symbolic end to Victoria’s summer vacation and return to her public duties.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel during a visit to Finland, August 21, 2026
Royal birthdays of the past week and other news from Norway and Belgium
Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway turned 53 years old. On this occasion, the Royal Court of Norway published a new portrait. It depicts the Crown Princess with her husband Crown Prince Haakon and their children.
This week, another birthday was celebrated in the royal families. On August 20, Prince Gabriel of Belgium, the son of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, celebrated his 23rd birthday. The celebration coincided with another important event in the prince’s life: he completed his studies at the Royal Military Academy.
Both King Philippe and Queen Mathilde attended the graduation ceremony, as well as Gabriel’s older sister, Princess Elisabeth, the official heir to the Belgian throne.
King Philippe of Belgium with his wife Queen Mathilde and their children, Prince Gabriel and Princess Elisabeth, 20 August 2026.Change to the law of succession to the throne in Liechtenstein
Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein announced a change to the law of succession to the throne. On Liechtenstein’s Independence Day, he gave a speech announcing a forthcoming rule change. His announcement replaced the current system of succession through the male line. Now, the first child of the reigning monarch, regardless of gender, becomes heir to the throne.
The change in the rules of succession marks a significant shift in the approach of one of the last European monarchies to retain an exclusively male order of succession. This puts Liechtenstein on par with Sweden, Norway, Belgium and other countries that have previously switched to gender-neutral rules.
