Crown Prince Haakon: Latest News & Updates

Mr. Eric Glover DVM 15 May 2025

Is it possible for a modern monarchy to remain relevant and resonate with its people? Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, a man of the people and heir to the throne, offers a compelling case study in how it can be done.

On the 19th, Crown Prince Haakon addressed the media, commenting on the arrest of his stepson, Marius Borg Hiby, who was 27 at the time. This wasn't the first time the Crown Prince's life intersected with moments of both public scrutiny and personal connection. His life, and the lives of those around him, have often been intertwined with both national and international events, providing glimpses into the modern Norwegian monarchy.

Bio Data	Details
Full Name	Haakon Magnus
Born	July 20, 1973, Oslo, Norway
Parents	King Harald V and Queen Sonja
Siblings	Princess Mrtha Louise
Spouse	Crown Princess Mette-Marit
Children	Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus, Marius Borg Hiby (stepson)
Education	Attended Public Schools and Kindergartens
Title	Crown Prince of Norway
Heir to the Throne	Yes
Interests	Surfing, Skiing, Music

Reference: The Royal House of Norway

Born on July 20, 1973, in Oslo, Norway, Haakon is the only son and younger child of King Harald V and Queen Sonja. His birth positioned him as the immediate heir to the throne, a role he has embraced throughout his life. The early years of his life were shaped by his parents' commitment to providing a "normal" upbringing, leading him to attend public kindergartens and schools, a choice that fostered a connection with the broader Norwegian society. He even has an older sister, Princess Mrtha Louise.

Haakon's journey to his current position has been marked by significant milestones. He became a regent for the first time at the young age of 18, stepping in for his father during a foreign visit. His engagement to Mette-Marit Tjessem Hiby, announced amidst public interest, showcased a willingness to embrace a relationship that diverged from traditional royal expectations. This commitment to modern values and inclusivity helped shape his image as a forward-thinking heir.

In 2012, Haakon's wife obtained a master's degree in executive management. While, he has been the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne since birth, though he became heir when his father ascended to the throne in 1991. He is not just an heir; he is an active participant in the life of the nation, deeply interested in fostering progress. His roles include supporting youth leadership, climate action, and projects run by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Crown Prince, along with his wife, diligently fulfills numerous official duties each year both domestically and internationally. The Royal Court's annual report for 2024 reflects the breadth of their engagements, including visits to numerous municipalities across Norway, as well as participation in extensive county visits. This engagement reflects their commitment to connecting with the populace and engaging in the issues that are central to the country's well-being.

The roots of the Norwegian monarchy run deep, extending back centuries. The story of Haakon IV, who reigned from 1217 to 1263, offers a glimpse into the historical tapestry of the Norwegian royal lineage. The "Birkebeiner" skiers' journey to safety during the winter of 1206, carrying the infant Prince Haakon, demonstrates the monarchy's deep connection to the country's past. The Prince Haakon 15km race is named in his honour. The current Crown Prince's role thus becomes a testament to the enduring relevance of the monarchy, as it has evolved alongside the nation's journey.

Haakon's commitment extends to more than just official duties. He is known for his love of surfing, skiing, and music. This helps him build a bridge between tradition and the values of modern society, making the monarchy more relatable and accessible to the people.

Furthermore, the Crown Prince's involvement in current events reveals the human side of royalty. His recent remarks about the arrest of his stepson, Marius Borg Hiby, demonstrate his commitment to his family. The announcement showed Haakon's dedication to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. This action reinforces his image as a modern royal who embraces both his role and a range of viewpoints.

In the past, when the engagement between Crown Prince Haakon and Mette-Marit was announced, it was met with mixed feelings. Nonetheless, over the years, the couple has been able to demonstrate through their conduct that they are aligned with modern Norwegian values. King Harald and Queen Sonja, Haakon's parents, set a precedent by providing their children with a normal upbringing, and this allowed the prince to connect more closely with the general public.

In the past, Prince Haakon, was the best man at the wedding of Frederik, now the King of Denmark, demonstrating the strong ties between the royal families. Le prince haakon de norvge, as he is known in French, the crown prince continues to be an example of tradition and modernity, who is an heir to the throne for more than 32 years. This demonstrates how Norway sees its future in its monarchy.

As the Crown Prince approaches a significant milestone, he is celebrating his 50th birthday. Crown Prince Haakon, along with his father, King Harald V, embodies a vision of the modern era. These are qualities that define the modern character of the Norwegian monarchy.

This modern royal, a man who loves sports and has a down-to-earth demeanour, is seen as being close to the people. His open communication and dedication to inclusivity help to secure the monarchy's lasting relevancy. In essence, Crown Prince Haakon embodies a modern, forward-thinking era that is reshaping the Norwegian monarchy for generations to come.

The Crown Prince will speak at the opening of the Arctic Circle Assembly, where more than 2,000 participants from over 60 countries will gather to talk about problems in the Arctic. Additionally, the Crown Prince will visit the Hellisheii geothermal power plant and Carbfix, which is creating pioneering technology for carbon capture and storage.