Norwegian King Harald V Dies Aged 89
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
King Harald V was a remarkable man and monarch, whose decades of diligent service earned the Norwegian royal family widespread support, even bridging political divides. His unwavering faith in the people of Norway unified the nation and strengthened its society, while his acknowledgement of and apology for historic oppression against the Sámi people reflected a monarchy modernized to suit the 21st century.
Establishment-critical narrative
King Harald V was an undoubtedly popular leader who took bold steps to progress the Norwegian crown for the modern age, but that does not excuse the scandal and corruption that continues to plague this monarchy. Norway's yet-to-be crowned King was previously scrutinized for misappropriation of funds for a private property portfolio, while the Crown Princess has come under fire from the PM over her relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, which continued even after his conviction for child sex offenses. In the wake of Harald's passing, the Norwegian people must surely ask themselves whether this monarchy is fit for purpose.