What Contemporary Royal Families Are Not Allowed to Do

The modern royal families, particularly in Europe, often face numerous restrictions compared to other citizens. These limitations extend to civil rights and liberties that are typically available to the general populace. While the specifics can vary depending on the country and the exact status within the royal family, the following are some common restrictions that contemporary royals must adhere to:

Free Speech and Association

Royals are generally expected to avoid speaking publicly on political or diplomatic matters. This includes refraining from expressing any preferential opinions towards a particular political party or candidate. Attending partisan political gatherings or joining partisan political organizations is also a no-go. The logic behind these restrictions is to maintain the neutrality and impartiality of the royal institution, ensuring that it remains above the political fray and thus serves as a unifying force within the society.

The Right to Vote

In principle, there is no explicit legal prohibition on voting for royals. However, they are typically discouraged or expected not to participate in elections. This includes not standing as candidates or voting in compulsory elections. The rationale is to preserve the perception of the royal family as a ceremonial and impartial entity rather than a political player. By abstaining from the political process, they maintain their public trust and integrity.

Religious Freedom

In some countries, such as Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, there are specific legal or constitutional requirements regarding the royal family's religious affiliation. These monarchs must belong to a particular church or profess a specific religion in order to ascend to the throne. This is a tradition aimed at maintaining historical continuity and the symbolic importance of the state church's role in the political and social fabric of the nation.

Marriage and Succession

While royal families enjoy freedom in choosing partners, there are often stringent rules surrounding marriage, especially for those in the line of succession. These rules are usually established in the constitution or law and require formal consent from the monarch, government, or Parliament. For instance, in the UK, the monarch's consent is required, and the consent of Parliament is needed for any changes to the Succession to the Crown Act. If royals in the line of succession do not obtain this consent before marrying, they risk losing their succession rights and those of their offspring.

The primary reason for these restrictions is to ensure that the royal family is perceived as stable, legitimate, and neutral. These rules are not merely arbitrary but serve a broader purpose of maintaining public trust and harmony. With fame and fortune comes a unique set of challenges and expectations, and the modern royal family must navigate these carefully to sustain their historical and cultural significance.

Conclusion

The royal family, as we know it in contemporary Europe, is not just a symbol but a complex institution with a vast array of rules and restrictions. While these limitations are in place to protect and enhance their status, they do mean that royals must give up certain freedoms that other citizens enjoy. In the end, the goal is to safeguard the integrity, legitimacy, and stability of their role in society.