A recent survey reveals historically low support for Norway's monarchy, with only 40% of respondents opposing the idea that Crown Prince Haakon should be the

country's last king. Calls are also increasing for his sister, Princess Martha Louise, to either relinquish her title or for their father, King Harald, to strip it from her.

The survey, conducted by research firm Norstat for Dagsavisen newspaper, shows that 35% of respondents now favor replacing the monarchy with a presidency—a significant rise from under 20% just a few years ago. Another 25% remain uncertain, highlighting shifting public opinion in a country where the monarchy has traditionally enjoyed strong support.

These results follow weeks of controversy surrounding Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship, who was recently arrested, and accusations that Princess Martha Louise exploited her royal title by allegedly “selling her wedding” to commercial outlets, including celebrity magazines and Netflix.

King Harald, clearly displeased, issued a statement through the Royal Palace, indicating that the royal family would only allow photos to be taken if all press photographers were granted access. Commentators have since criticized Martha Louise’s handling of her wedding, where she allegedly asked photographers to step aside so Netflix could capture the event for an upcoming show about her and her husband, self-proclaimed shaman Durek Verrett. The show is expected to focus on their alternative lifestyles and their claims of unfair treatment in Norway.

Martha Louise, who is fourth in line to the throne, has faced increasing pressure to relinquish her title. Royal historian Trond Norén Isaksen and other commentators have been calling for this for months. Although she initially resisted, she eventually entered into an agreement with her father and brother in 2022 to stop using her title for commercial purposes. However, violations of the agreement have continued, leading to public frustration and sinking approval ratings for the monarchy.

King Harald has remained largely silent on the matter, despite public calls for him to enforce the agreement. Some believe he has been waiting until after the wedding to address the issue, while others express disappointment in his lack of action. "Norwegians are generally fond of King Harald," Isaksen told Aftenposten, "but many are angry that his daughter and her partner publicly humiliate him by disregarding his authority."

Commentators have drawn comparisons between Princess Martha Louise and other royals who have struggled with their roles, including the UK's Prince Harry and Princess Margaret. Similarly, Marius Borg Høiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son, has caused further embarrassment for the royal family after being arrested on charges of assault. The incident is particularly troubling for the crown couple, who have been vocal supporters of women’s crisis centers.

The controversies have reignited debates about the monarchy's relevance in Norway. The Socialist Left Party (SV), which has long opposed the monarchy, plans to propose transitioning to a republic with a president. "These cases illustrate the inherent challenges of a monarchy," said SV Member of Parliament Andreas Sjalg Unneland. "Do we wait for a scandal big enough to abolish it, or do we bring it to a dignified end?"

Crown Prince Haakon, widely respected for his education and leadership, is still expected to succeed his father. However, historians note that even Haakon has contributed to distancing the royal family from the public. Decisions such as removing his children from public schools and vacationing aboard a Cayman Islands-registered yacht during the refugee crisis have drawn criticism for making the monarchy appear disconnected from the average Norwegian.

Despite growing concerns, political science professor Trond Nordby believes the monarchy is unlikely to be formally abolished. "It will probably rot from within," he said, suggesting that internal pressures might eventually wear down the institution.

The recent controversies have raised questions about the future of Norway’s monarchy, particularly as it faces increasing scrutiny from both the public and political parties. As debates continue, the royal family may be forced to address these issues more directly in order to maintain its role in Norwegian society.