The eldest of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde’s children, Princess Elisabeth, is set to assume a historic role. If she succeeds her father, she will be the first queen regnant of Belgium. At only 23 years old, she is next in line to take over the Belgian throne. She follows a strong family tradition, as her father succeeded his own father, King Albert II, upon the latter’s abdication in July 2013.
Princess Elisabeth’s academic achievements are impressive. She finished a two-year International Baccalaureate at UWC Atlantic College in Llantwit Major, Wales. Subsequently, she graduated from Lincoln College at Oxford University in 2024 with a 2:1 degree in history and politics. She is now a master’s student in public policy at Harvard University, United States. Uncertainties loom over her second year at Harvard due to President Trump’s proposal to restrict foreign students attending the institution on a visa.
King Philippe spoke about his daughter’s future and his own place in the monarchy during a wide-ranging interview last week. He had been adamant that Princess Elisabeth be given the space to grow up and flourish as a person before becoming Queen.
“I will continue to work for Belgium, and I must give my daughter time to enjoy her youth, develop herself and see the world and I support her 100 percent in that and I will do everything I can to give her all the time she needs to do,” – King Philippe.
At 65 years of age, King Philippe did not rule out the possibility that he would reduce his responsibilities one day. Nonetheless, he does not consider this a retirement.
“A King steps back, but is not retired,” – King Philippe.
This sentiment reflects Belgium’s historical context regarding royal abdications, as seen in King Albert II’s decision to step down due to health concerns. The monarchy’s own tradition of abdication creates a precedent that may long cast its shadow over Princess Elisabeth’s eventual reign.
As Princess Elisabeth shapes her identity and prepares for her future role, she remains committed to her studies and personal growth. Her father’s support indicates a nurturing environment as she navigates both her education and future responsibilities as Belgium’s first queen regnant.
