Norway mourns King Harald as new era begins under Haakon VIII | News
King Harald, Norway’s Longest-Reigning Monarch, Passes Away at 89
By [Author Name]
Published Aug. 29, 2026
Oslo, Norway — King Harald, Europe’s oldest monarch, is being remembered by Norwegians as a unifying leader and a champion of inclusivity as he lies in state at the Royal Palace in Oslo. The king, who served for 35 years, died on Friday at the age of 89, prompting a national period of mourning in the Nordic country.
Since his passing, thousands have gathered in the capital to pay their respects, laying flowers and reflecting on his legacy. Known for his reformist approach, King Harald embodied the ideals of a tolerant and open society.
“He has meant a great deal and has been a unifying king,” said Line Stousland, 49, in an interview with the AFP news agency. “He has been a king of the people, like a grandfather to the whole nation.”
King Harald passed away at Oslo University Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for haemolytic anaemia since August 17. This condition, characterized by the rapid destruction of red blood cells, can lead to significant fatigue and shortness of breath.
While the date for his funeral has yet to be confirmed, the transition to a new reign is already underway. Upon King Harald’s death, his son, now King Haakon VIII, immediately assumed the throne. The 53-year-old is set to take the oath of office in front of Norway’s parliament on Tuesday, pledging to uphold the constitution and the laws of the country.
King Haakon inherits a monarchy that is recognized for its modernity but faces challenges, including recent scandals. Earlier this year, connections were made between high-profile Norwegian politicians and the deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, prompting a police investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland on suspicion of corruption. Additionally, Haakon’s stepson, Marius Borg Hoiby, was sentenced in June to four years in prison on multiple charges, including rape and domestic violence.
As the nation mourns, flags across Norway are flying at half-mast, and images of King Harald in his gala uniform adorn public spaces, from bus stops to offices.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, in a speech following his meeting with the new king, remarked, “An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king. We will remember King Harald for his love for his people, for his humour and warmth, and for his unwavering faith in us.”
