As Norway continues to follow the ongoing case involving Marius Borg Høiby, with a verdict expected on June 15, concern over Princess Mette-Marit’s health has also intensified. The crown princess, who is reportedly on a waiting list for a lung transplant, was notably absent from a milestone event that holds special meaning for both her and her husband, Crown Prince Haakon.
On June 11, Haakon attended the 25th anniversary celebration of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess’s Fund, a charitable initiative established on the day of their wedding and one that has since become a cornerstone of the couple’s public work.
This year’s event carried particular emotional significance. For the first time, Princess Mette-Marit was unable to attend the annual celebration of the fund that was created as a direct result of her marriage to Haakon. Her fragile health prevented her from taking part in an occasion they have always hosted together, adding a poignant note to an event that represents a major part of their shared legacy.
Her last public appearance was on Norway’s National Day, May 17, when she appeared visibly weakened and was seen relying on supplemental oxygen.
A Wedding that changed the monarchy
Crown Prince Haakon married Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby on August 25, 2001, at Oslo Cathedral in a ceremony attended by royals from across Europe, including Spain’s Queen Sofía and the then-Prince Felipe.
The wedding marked a turning point for the Norwegian monarchy. Mette-Marit became the first commoner and single mother to marry into the royal family, a modernizing moment that reshaped public perceptions of the Scandinavian monarchy.
The couple also made an unusual request that resonated deeply with the Norwegian people. Rather than receiving traditional wedding gifts, they asked for something far more meaningful, a decision that would go on to impact thousands of lives over the next 25 years.
A Donation that changed thousands of lives
Instead of wedding presents, Haakon and Mette-Marit requested financial contributions to establish a fund dedicated to two goals: supporting international development projects and promoting inclusion and well-being among young people in Norway.
The Norwegian government enthusiastically embraced the idea, approving a contribution equivalent to one krone per citizen. At the time, that amounted to 4.5 million kroner, roughly $410,000. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess’s Fund was born, and 25 years later, it continues to grow and transform lives.
The anniversary celebration took place at the Royal Palace, where approximately 200 guests gathered, including young people who have participated in the fund’s programs, project leaders, partners, board members, and longtime staff.
Haakon attended the event alone and welcomed guests personally. Host Amalie Stuve led a program featuring discussions about marginalized youth, conversations on inclusion, music performances, slam poetry, and screenings of films produced through the fund’s initiatives.
The crown prince also spoke with several young participants about their experiences, hearing firsthand how the fund’s programs have influenced their mental health, self-confidence, and sense of belonging within their communities.
The event was especially meaningful at a time when his family is facing significant personal challenges.
Haakon’s most emotional remarks
According to Dana Press, the crown prince became visibly emotional while addressing guests gathered in the Small Hall of the Royal Palace.
“I bring greetings from the Crown Princess,” he said. “She would have loved to be here. Because of her health, she isn’t able to attend today, but this is just as important to her as it is to all of us. She’s following today’s events closely.”
His remarks were met with a long round of applause.
Haakon went on to reflect on the origins of the fund 25 years ago, recalling the days leading up to their wedding. Speaking about his wife’s current condition, he admitted that looking back on that moment now feels both beautiful and bittersweet.
“With the Crown Princess seriously ill, remembering that day is both wonderful and painful,” he said. “I wish she could be here with us.”
Clearly moved, he added that both he and Mette-Marit are “incredibly proud of what the foundation has accomplished over the years, thanks to so many of you who are here today, and thanks to the young people.”
The first decade: Planting seeds for change
During its first ten years, the fund supported projects both in Norway and abroad.
Within Norway, it focused on initiatives that strengthened family support systems, inclusion, and well-being for children and young people. Internationally, it funded health and education programs, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Each year on August 25, the couple’s wedding anniversary- the fund announces its newly selected projects.
In 2011, a concert in University Square marked the fund’s 10th anniversary and introduced a new chapter in its mission. Since then, the organization has focused on long-term partnerships with carefully selected projects aimed at combating exclusion and encouraging youth participation.
The Fund Today: Supporting inclusion and mental health
Today, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess’s Fund supports programs that create safe spaces for young people, encourage social engagement, and help participants develop personal and community-building skills.
The organization has also launched its own initiatives, including Flowt, a program designed to help young people navigate life’s challenges, strengthen mental health, and build social skills.
By combining mentorship, creativity, and prevention-focused support, the fund has become a leading model for youth development in Norway.
Haakon adjusts his schedule to be With Mette-Marit
Following Thursday’s event, Crown Prince Haakon had been scheduled to attend a meeting with King Harald on Friday. However, the engagement was canceled at the last minute
The king traditionally holds a cabinet meeting at the palace every Friday morning, and Haakon is typically in attendance. Although he had originally been expected to participate, the royal schedule was revised.
According to Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten, “due to the Crown Princess’s severe chronic lung disease, the Crown Prince will adjust his schedule so he can spend more time with her during this period.”
The decision underscores just how central Mette-Marit’s health has become to both the family’s private life and the crown prince’s official responsibilities.
