Johan T Lindwall: The King's decision is daring, modern and surprising
Sofia Hellqvist at Estelle's baptism. Undoubtedly, big of the king. But above all, modern. With his decision, that goes against all the royal rules, he shows that we actually have a royal family in time. I was somewhat surprised of that Sofia Hellqvist has been invited to Estelle's baptism. There are several reasons, the main one being that the invitation goes against all the rules of the royal world. She and Prince Carl Philip are together. They live officially together. But there is one thing which they are not: Engaged.
We know what it looked like when Victoria and Daniel were together. Year after year they had to sneak with their love. It was only when the King turned 60 that Daniel could show up in a royal context. It was nearly five years after Victoria and Daniel had become a couple.
In the case of Sofia Hellqvist, it has been very different. Royals around the world arrive to the baptism and all official Sweden is represented. That is why it is an extremely daring and modern decision by the king to let Sofia attend the baptism. She is not an official member of the royal family.
What does the king's decision include? Very much. Now we can once and for all turn away all doubts, if she is approved or not by the royal couple. Invitation to the Baptism is arguably the definitive confirmation of that the royal family have accepted her. The irony of the king's decision is that it also opens the door to Madeleine's boyfriend Chris O'Neill. The person Madeleine once could not stand has now made it happen that the king has eased the rules.
What does this decision mean to the monarchy? I am convinced that in the long run it will strengthen confidence in the royal house.
Sofia is a woman of the people. Now she - just like Daniel - has access to the finer rooms. All thanks to the king.
Johan T Lindwall: Kungens beslut är vågat, modernt och överraskande | Nyheter | Expressen
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