King Harald's legacy: Wit and wisdom from the Norwegian monarch

King Harald V of Norway leaves behind a legacy marked not only by his royal duties but also by his impactful words, which ranged from witty observations to profound messages. Described by his cousin, Queen Margrethe of Denmark, as a humorous man, King Harald also consistently used his platform to address the Norwegian people on critical issues, offering guidance and comfort.

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Norwegians are girls who like girls, boys who like boys and girls and boys who like each other. Norwegians believe in God, Allah, everything and nothing. Norwegians are northerners, from the north, and from the south – and people from all other regions. Norwegians have immigrated from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Poland, Sweden, Somalia and Syria. We must remember that despite our differences, we are one people. One Norway.

His speeches often touched upon the theme of diversity and national unity. In a 2016 address celebrating 25 years on the throne, he stated, "Norwegians are girls who like girls, boys who like boys and girls and boys who like each other. Norwegians believe in God, Allah, everything and nothing. Norwegians are northerners, from the north, and from the south – and people from all other regions. Norwegians have immigrated from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Poland, Sweden, Somalia and Syria. We must remember that despite our differences, we are one people. One Norway."

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Sometimes life is unbearable. For some, it becomes so dark that nothing helps. Not even the love of their closest relatives. Some see no other way out than to leave life. Those who are left behind must live on. Poorer – without the one they cherished.

King Harald also spoke with empathy about loss and vulnerability, particularly in his 2020 New Year's address following the suicide of Ari Behn. He acknowledged the profound darkness some experience, saying, "Sometimes life is unbearable. For some, it becomes so dark that nothing helps. Not even the love of their closest relatives. Some see no other way out than to leave life. Those who are left behind must live on. Poorer – without the one they cherished." He urged compassion, stating, "We know so little about what is to meet us. Uncertainty makes us all vulnerable. The best we can do is be there for each other, see each other, remember to speak kindly to each other and carry each other if necessary."

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We know so little about what is to meet us. Uncertainty makes us all vulnerable. The best we can do is be there for each other, see each other, remember to speak kindly to each other and carry each other if necessary.

Reflecting on the challenges of kingship and personal life, King Harald shared insights during a 2024 state visit to Denmark, advising Crown Prince Frederik: "The people's support alone cannot carry a king. One also needs to live in love with one's closest relatives. So when you were joined by your family on the balcony on this very special day, I hope you felt the necessary strength, because family is perhaps your most important support system. That is certainly my experience." He also addressed the difficulties faced by his family, including the legal issues surrounding his stepson Marius Borg Høiby, acknowledging in 2025 that "it is something that is not possible to prepare for." His words consistently balanced the solemnity of his position with a relatable humanity.

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The people's support alone cannot carry a king. One also needs to live in love with one's closest relatives. So when you were joined by your family on the balcony on this very special day, I hope you felt the necessary strength, because family is perhaps your most important support system. That is certainly my experience.