Queen Mary and King Frederik Bound to Upset Danes With Controversial Policy Overhaul

King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark

King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark are making some big changes to the monarchy after taking the throne earlier this year.

The couple shared some major news at the end of May, announcing in a statement that they would be limiting the number of charities and organizations supported by the monarchy at any given time.

When Frederik and Mary ascended to the throne in January, all of the previous patronages were suspended while they decided which organizations the monarchy would support going forward. In the new announcement, it was revealed that there would be only 140 patronages now, down from 258.

Calling royal patronages "a tradition we are very proud to continue," the royal family of Denmark stated, "Through our royal patronages, we wish to support efforts which promote Danish culture, science and enterprise, protect our nature, and give a voice for the marginalized and vulnerable in our society."

Along with the lower number of organizations and charities that would be supported by the throne, Frederik and Mary also limited the time period, stating that the initial support would be five years, after which the organization could apply for an extension.

According to DailyMail.com, a few of the dropped patronages include the Copenhagen Zoo, the Danish Golf Union, the Danish Swimming Union and the Hearing Association.

Danish historian and expert Sebastian Olden-Jørgensen  expects there to be backlash from the public over this move, telling the publication B.T., translated from Danish, that the organizations will "undoubtedly be upset," but the move also seems to be "a signal that the royals will play a role with the organizations of which they are patrons."

Frederik and Mary took the throne after the former ruler, Queen Margrethe II, abdicated the throne after ruling for 52 years. Her husband Henrik was prince consort, ruling by her side until he died in 2018.

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