Henri of Luxembourg announces he's abdicating: Son Prince Guillaume will take over as Grand Duke in October as his father becomes the latest Euro royal family head to step aside for the next generation Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg has announced he is abdicating in favour of his son Guillaume, who will officially take the throne from next October.
The monarch, 69, made the shock announcement during what will now be considered his last ever annual Christmas broadcast, bringing his 24-year reign to an end.
While explaining that 'the Grand Duke is above political parties and does not interfere in political debates,' he said, 'nothing prevents me from speaking out when the fundamental interests of the country and its citizens are at stake.'.
During tonight's broadcast, the outgoing Grand Duke said he was 'proud' to have served his country for a quarter of a century.
Henri's abdication marks the second European monarch to step down from their reign this year.
