Queen Sonja is entering a new chapter in Norway’s monarchy, and a change to her official status is drawing attention. Following the death of her husband, King Harald V, the royal is now listed under “Other members of the Royal Family” on the palace website, rather than among members of the Royal House.
Her biography makes clear, however, that she will continue carrying out official engagements representing the institution. After 35 years beside Harald as queen consort, Sonja’s position has shifted with the accession of their son, King Haakon VIII.
© Patrick van KatwijkThe palace’s explanation also reveals a distinction that some international coverage has overlooked. Although her formal styling has changed in Norway, she can still be referred to as “Her Majesty Queen Sonja" abroad.
What has changed for Queen Sonja?
According to Norwegian outlet Aftenposten, palace communications chief Guri Varpe confirmed that Sonja no longer uses the formal Norwegian styling “Her Majesty.”
© detnorskekongehusHaakon has continued the monarchy’s practice of limiting royal forms of address to members of the Royal House, while other relatives are addressed by their titles, including queen, prince or princess.
The Royal House now consists of King Haakon, Queen Mette-Marit and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra. Sonja retains her title of queen and remains part of the wider royal family. The distinction concerns her formal place within the institution.
© Patrick van KatwijkThere is also an international exception. Varpe explained that the king has approved the use of English forms of address abroad, where different traditions apply.
Sonja can therefore still be described as “Her Majesty Queen Sonja” in that context, wording that continues to appear on her official English biography.
Her royal work continues:
For Sonja, the change comes alongside a continuing public role. In its October 7 announcement about the resumption of engagements after court mourning ended on October 9, the palace explicitly confirmed that she would undertake official assignments representing the Royal House.
© LISE ASERUDHer presence comes during a period of limited availability for other senior royals. Queen Mette-Marit remains in rehabilitation following her lung transplant and is not expected to have an official programme until next summer.
Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra will continue prioritizing her studies, attending selected occasions before returning to Australia in February.
© Getty ImagesSonja’s upcoming calendar offers a clear picture of that continuing commitment. She is scheduled to join Haakon and Ingrid Alexandra at a dinner for members of Parliament on October 22.
A week later, she will open the Munch–Picasso exhibition at Museo Picasso Málaga in Spain, followed by a visit to the Norwegian school in Benalmádena on October 30.
© ODD ANDERSENHer place on the palace website may have changed, but those engagements show that Queen Sonja will remain a visible presence as Norway’s monarchy moves into its next era.
