Overview

• In a late-June interview released by the Belgian palace, King Philippe said “A King steps back, but is not retired” when asked about possibly abdicating in favor of his eldest child.
• He said the throne’s transfer would allow him to continue working for Belgium while giving Princess Elisabeth time to enjoy her youth and develop her skills.
• Princess Elisabeth graduated from Oxford in July 2024 and is now pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School after receiving an Honorary Award from the Fulbright Program.
• Belgium adopted absolute primogeniture in 1991, ensuring the eldest child inherits the throne regardless of gender and clearing the way for the nation’s first queen regnant.
• Philippe ascended in 2013 at age 53 after his father voluntarily abdicated and has indicated he will maintain a public role if he steps back.