King Harald's death unites Norwegians, even younger generations

Oslo was somber and gray on Friday, a stark contrast to the beautiful weather of the previous day, as the nation mourned the passing of King Harald. Tributes, including bouquets of flowers, half-mast Norwegian flags, and portraits of the king displayed on street corners, marked the solemn atmosphere.

A planned cycling protest against the monarchy at Youngstorget was canceled out of respect for the king. Mats Svensson, who was present to inform potential attendees, explained that the organizers decided to call off the demonstration. Svensson, who identifies as a liberal, cycling hipster, believes that many in his age group see ethical problems with the monarchy.

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It was impossible to hate the monarchy when you had him.

However, King Harald's death has also prompted a shift in perspective for some, like 27-year-old cafe owner Mikael Kavli. Kavli, who was previously indifferent to the monarchy, changed his mind after seeing memorial videos following the king's passing. He even picked a flower from a public flowerbed to lay at the Royal Palace.

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Harald was just a really good guy.

Despite a 2023 survey by Norwegian broadcaster NRK indicating that only 51 percent of 18–29-year-olds wished for the monarchy to continue after King Harald, many still hold a deep affection for him. Svensson noted, "It was impossible to hate the monarchy when you had him." He believes the monarchy has provided Norwegians with a shared tradition and that Harald was "just a really good guy."

Even recent scandals have not shaken Svensson's confidence in the royal family, as he feels Harald remained above them. Svensson hopes the monarchy will continue to exist when he is 50, stating, "That's how it's always been and that's how it should be."

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I am losing confidence without my glasses.