The decision of Greece Royal Family to apply for citizenship, half a century after the monarchy was abolished, has sparked significant debate within the country. Their acknowledgment of Greece’s republican system and the adoption of a new surname mark a pivotal moment in the resolution of this historical issue.
A Historic Step: Acknowledging the Republican Government
Fifty years after the monarchy’s abolition, members of the former royal family of Greece have formally applied for citizenship. This move represents an acknowledgment of Greece’s republican system of government. The late King Constantine II and his family had their Greek citizenship revoked in 1994 amidst a legal dispute with the government over the royal estate.
On Thursday, the family signed a declaration formally recognizing the republican government. In a symbolic gesture, they adopted a new surname, “De Grece,” which translates to “of Greece” in French. This name change signifies their willingness to integrate into Greek society as private citizens rather than royals.
Read : Greek Royal Family Return Home After 50 Years in Exile
Interior Ministry official Athanasios Balerpas described the moment as significant for the country. He stated, “A historically pending matter is being resolved. Let’s look to the future now.” The sentiment reflects a broader desire to reconcile past divisions and move forward as a unified people.
Criticism and Controversy Over the Surname
Despite the family’s steps to adapt to Greece’s republican reality, their choice of the surname “De Grece” has drawn criticism, particularly from left-wing politicians. Many argue that the name retains a royal undertone, potentially causing confusion about the family’s status.
Read : Heavy Lightning Sparks Two Fires on Greek Island of Thassos: Watch
The Socialist Party criticized the move, stating, “By opting for this family name, they create confusion.” Similarly, the Syriza Party expressed concern, arguing that the Greek legal system does not recognize titles or nobilities, and the chosen surname could blur the lines between the former monarchy and the current republican system.
The former royal family’s refusal to adopt the name Glucksburg, which was assigned in a 1994 law, has also been a point of contention. The family rejected this name, citing its German origins, which they felt undermined their Greek identity.
The decision to adopt “De Grece” instead reflects their effort to balance heritage and integration, though it remains a contentious choice.
The Path to Citizenship: A Resolution to Decades of Exile
The former royal family’s application for citizenship closes a chapter of exile and legal disputes that began in 1974 when Greece voted to abolish the monarchy through a referendum. The vote led to the establishment of a republican constitution, with 69.2% of voters favoring the change.
Following the referendum, members of the royal family lived in exile for decades. King Constantine II, the last monarch of Greece, returned to the country only in his seventies as a private citizen. The family’s citizenship was revoked in 1994 during a legal battle over their former estate, which was later declared state property.
Now, 10 members of the family, including all five children of the late king and former Queen Anne-Marie, as well as five of their grandchildren, have applied for Greek citizenship. The move has been described by officials as an important step toward resolving a historically fraught issue.
The family’s application must now be published in the official government gazette before they can obtain Greek passports and identity cards.
While the decision has garnered criticism, there is little opposition to their right to citizenship. Instead, the focus has been on the implications of their chosen surname and its potential impact on Greece’s republican identity.
The former royal family’s application for Greek citizenship marks a turning point in their relationship with the country. By acknowledging the republican government and adopting a new surname, they have taken significant steps toward integration as private citizens.
However, their choice of the surname “De Grece” has sparked controversy, highlighting the enduring sensitivities surrounding Greece’s monarchical past.
As the decision moves forward, it represents not only a resolution of historical tensions but also an opportunity for Greece to embrace its future while reconciling its past.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏