The Belgian Royal Family holds a significant place in the nation’s identity and history. This article delves into the lives and roles of key members of the royal family, offering insights into their responsibilities and contributions to Belgium.
King Philippe: The Reigning Monarch
Born on April 15, 1960, King Philippe is the eldest son of King Albert II and Queen Paola. His educational path reflects a commitment to both national and international perspectives. He began his schooling in Brussels at a French-speaking primary school before transitioning to a Dutch-language secondary school in Loppem. This bilingual foundation is symbolic of Belgium’s diverse linguistic landscape. Continuing his education, the then-Prince Philippe attended the Royal Military Academy, demonstrating an early dedication to service.
His military career was extensive, encompassing roles as an officer in the army, a para-commando, and a military aircraft and helicopter pilot. Today, as King, he holds the rank of General in the Belgian army, overseeing both air and ground forces, a testament to his continued connection with the military. Beyond his military training, King Philippe pursued academic studies in politics at the prestigious Universities of Oxford in the United Kingdom and Stanford in the United States, broadening his understanding of global affairs and governance.
Prior to his ascension to the throne, Prince Philippe dedicated himself to promoting Belgian economic interests on the world stage. He led economic missions approximately four times annually. These international trips served as vital platforms to showcase Belgian companies and Belgium itself, fostering crucial business relationships and attracting foreign investment. This work was and remains essential for Belgium, as thriving international partnerships directly contribute to job creation within the country.
King Philippe also holds the honorary presidency of the Prince Philippe Fund, now known as the King Philippe Fund. This organization plays a crucial role in strengthening ties between Belgium’s diverse linguistic communities – Flemish, Francophone, and German. One notable initiative, the Trèfle (Clover) project, enables primary school pupils from different language regions to experience a week in a school where another of Belgium’s official languages is spoken, fostering intercultural understanding from a young age.
On July 21, 2013, Prince Philippe ascended to the throne, succeeding his father, King Albert II. He officially became His Majesty King Philippe, King of the Belgians, embarking on a new chapter of royal leadership.
Queen Mathilde: A Queen Dedicated to Social Causes
King Philippe’s marriage to Queen Mathilde in 1999 marked the beginning of a strong royal partnership. Queen Mathilde, born Mathilde d’Udekem d’Acoz on January 20, 1973, brings her own distinct background and passions to her royal role. Her education took place in Bastogne and Brussels, followed by studies in speech therapy. She worked in this profession before becoming Princess Mathilde, demonstrating a commitment to helping others communicate effectively. She furthered her academic pursuits by studying psychology, reflecting her deep interest in human well-being and mental health. Queen Mathilde is particularly engaged in issues related to education and is actively involved in numerous organizations focused on learning and development.
An early example of their shared commitment to social responsibility is evident in their wedding. Instead of traditional gifts, Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde requested donations to charities aiding vulnerable populations. This act of generosity led to the creation of the Princess Mathilde Fund, now the Queen Mathilde Fund. This foundation provides vital assistance to vulnerable individuals, with a particular focus on disadvantaged children, demonstrating a long-standing dedication to supporting those less fortunate.
Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Brabant: Heir to the Throne
Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Brabant, born on October 25, 2001, is the eldest child of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde and the heir apparent to the Belgian throne. Her upbringing has balanced royal duties with personal development. Known for her athleticism, Princess Elisabeth enjoys skiing, rowing, and sailing, as well as appreciating nature through walking and outdoor activities.
Currently, Princess Elisabeth is pursuing a Master in Public Policy at Harvard University’s Kennedy School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. This advanced degree underscores her commitment to public service and preparing for her future role as Queen. Since July 21, 2013, she has held the title of Duchess of Brabant, formally recognizing her position as heir. Her preparation for queenship began early. Princess Elisabeth participated in her first official ceremony on September 7, 2011, inaugurating the “Princess Elisabeth Hospital for Children” in Ghent. On October 18, 2014, she delivered her first public speech, demonstrating her linguistic skills in Dutch, French, and German, at a commemoration of the First World War. Further highlighting her public role, on May 6, 2015, Princess Elisabeth christened Pollux, a new patrol boat for the Belgian Navy.
A significant change in Belgian law paved the way for Princess Elisabeth’s future reign. Previously, only male heirs could ascend to the throne. However, in 1991, the Constitution was amended, allowing princesses to become Queen. As the eldest of King Philippe’s four children, Princess Elisabeth is poised to become Belgium’s first female Head of State in her own right, marking a historic moment for the Belgian monarchy.
Prince Gabriel: A Blend of Arts and Sports
Born on August 20, 2003, Prince Gabriel is the second child of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. He demonstrates a diverse range of interests, encompassing both artistic pursuits and athletic endeavors. Prince Gabriel studied piano for several years, showcasing an appreciation for music. He is also an enthusiastic sports fan and actively participates in tennis, skiing, and sailing. His long-term involvement in hockey, playing in a club for nine years, highlights his commitment to team sports and physical activity.
Prince Emmanuel: Nature Enthusiast and Saxophone Player
Prince Emmanuel, born on October 4, 2005, is the third child in the royal family. He shares a love for the outdoors, demonstrating a particular affinity for nature. Like his siblings, he is active in sports, including skiing, tennis, windsurfing, and running. Prince Emmanuel also explores his musical side by playing the saxophone, adding another dimension to his interests. The family’s pet dog further underscores their connection to animals and companionship.
Princess Eléonore: Creative and Sporty
Princess Eléonore, the youngest of the siblings, was born on April 16, 2008. She exhibits a creative spirit, expressed through playing the violin. She also shares the family’s passion for sports, participating in skiing, sailing, and tennis. Her diverse interests at a young age suggest a well-rounded development within the royal family.
King Albert II and Queen Paola: Past Monarchs
King Albert II and Queen Paola, the parents of King Philippe, remain important figures in the Belgian Royal Family. King Albert, born in 1934, experienced significant personal challenges early in life, losing his mother, Queen Astrid, when he was only one year old and living through the Second World War.
Similar to his son Philippe, King Albert actively engaged in hundreds of economic missions during his time as Prince and King, promoting Belgian trade and industry internationally. In 1959, Prince Albert married Italian Princess Paola Ruffo di Calabria. They have three children: Philippe, Astrid, and Laurent.
King Albert II ascended to the throne at the age of 59, following the unexpected death of his brother, King Baudouin, in 1993. After two decades of reign, King Albert II abdicated on July 21, 2013, passing the kingship to his eldest son, Philippe. While he relinquished the active role of monarch, he retained the title of King, remaining a respected figure within the royal family.
Princess Astrid: Continuing Royal Representation
Princess Astrid, King Philippe’s sister, was born on June 5, 1962. After completing her primary and secondary education in Brussels, she pursued art history studies at Leiden University in the Netherlands, demonstrating an interest in the arts and culture. Princess Astrid is married to Prince Lorenz, and they have five children. Following Philippe’s ascension to the throne, Princess Astrid has taken on a significant role in representing Belgium on economic missions abroad, continuing the family’s commitment to promoting Belgian interests internationally.
Prince Laurent: Advocate for Animal Welfare
Prince Laurent, the youngest child of King Albert II and Queen Paola, was born on October 19, 1963, in Brussels. He has consistently demonstrated a strong passion for nature and animals. This deep interest led him to establish the Prince Laurent Foundation, dedicated to the welfare of both domestic and wild animals. As President of the Foundation, Prince Laurent actively works to promote animal protection and conservation. He is married to Princess Claire, and they have three children.
The Belgian Royal Family, through its various members and their diverse engagements, plays a multifaceted role in Belgian society, encompassing tradition, public service, and international representation.
