Norway's new monarch King Haakon VIII: His life, role and challenges ahead

Key Points:

• Crown Prince Haakon, 53, ascended to the Norwegian throne as King Haakon VIII following the death of his father, King Harald V, with his eldest child, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, becoming heir to the throne.
• Haakon is experienced in royal duties, having served as regent during his father's health decline, and holds degrees in political science and development studies, alongside naval and diplomatic training.
• His marriage to Mette-Marit, a former single mother with a controversial past linked to a party scene involving illegal drugs, initially divided public opinion but she eventually gained wider acceptance.
• The monarchy faces challenges due to Mette-Marit's past associations with Jeffrey Epstein and the criminal convictions of Haakon's stepson, Marius Borg Hoiby, which have negatively impacted the royal family's popularity.
• Public support for the Norwegian monarchy has declined, with a 2022 poll showing 68% support compared to 81% in 2017, amid controversies involving the royal family, including Haakon's sister Martha Louise's unconventional beliefs.