Introduction
Monarchies have existed for centuries and still persist in today’s world, albeit on a smaller scale. Monarchs have mostly ceremonial duties, but their role lies in preserving cultural, historical and traditional values in their country. In this article, we will explore which countries still have monarchies, the debate over the relevance of maintaining a royal family, how modern monarchies are changing to stay relevant, and what being a royal entails.
A World of Monarchies: Which Countries Still Have a Royal Family?
There are currently 29 independent nations around the world that maintain a monarchy, out of which 16 have Queen Elizabeth II as their monarch because of her position as the head of the Commonwealth. The oldest monarchy, the Chrysanthemum Throne of Japan, can be traced back to 660 BC. Saudi Arabia is one of the most well-known absolute monarchies, and it is believed that only Royalties can succeed as king/queen. In Thailand, the Kings and Queens are held in high esteem and are considered a symbol of national identity.
Monarchies operate differently from one another, but they tend to have a range of responsibilities such as representing their country on a global scale, performing ceremonial duties such as opening the parliament or attending national events, and the power to give the Royal assent, which can make bills into laws.
The Debate Over Monarchy: Should Countries Continue to Have a Royal Family?
There are arguments both for and against monarchy in today’s world. Those in favor of maintaining a monarchy argue that it is an essential part of their national identity and that it preserves tradition and culture. As sovereign figures, monarchs symbolize unity and continuity – regardless of political, social, or economic changes – while providing stability and certainty in governance.
On the other hand, those who are against monarchy argue that it is undemocratic – as citizens should have the power to elect their own head of state. They believe that having a royal family is unjustified as they are simply figureheads, and the funds allocated towards maintaining them could be better used elsewhere.
Recently, Spain, one of Europe’s monarchies, has become an example of the debate over monarchy. King Juan Carlos I made the decision to abdicate his throne in June 2014, followed by his son Felipe VI who took over as King.
The Modern Face of Monarchy: How Royal Families are Changing to Stay Relevant
Modern monarchies across the globe are changing to stay relevant in a changing world. They have been known to utilize social media efficiently to showcase their public presence. For instance, the British Royal family uses social media to connect with people across the globe, post information, and show their support for various causes. The Dutch Royal family can also be seen on social media, giving the younger generation an opportunity to get a glimpse of royal life.
Monarchies are also working to make necessary changes by promoting social causes and championing national interests. The Prince of Wales, for example, is an advocate for sustainable living and the environment.
The Privilege and Responsibility of Being a Royal: An Insider’s Perspective
Being a member of a royal family comes with exceptional privileges and obligations. The obligation begins as soon as one becomes a member of the Royal family, and occasionally before birth. Members of the Royal family are expected to maintain protocol, attend ceremonies, carry out official duties and uphold traditions. These privileges are accompanied by challenges such as lack of privacy and media scrutiny.
The Economics of Monarchy: Is it Worth the Cost?
The question of whether the cost of maintaining a royal family is justifiable has been a frequent topic in many countries in recent years. However, studies have indicated that a monarchy can be a valuable investment for the country. For example, tourism revenue resulting from international visitors who visit historical sites and landmarks connected with the monarchy can be vast. Additionally, the monarchy holds significant cultural value and it’s also perceived to be adding value to the nation’s heritage.
Conclusion
A look into monarchies of the world shows that they are still relevant today. Monarchies represent a country’s heritage and cultural values, and the modern monarchies have adapted to changes by promoting social causes, utilizing technology, and engaging with citizens. Even though there is still an ongoing debate about their relevance and if their costs are justifiable, it’s evident that they are still an essential aspect of many countries’ history and identity.