King Philippe of Belgium highlights ‘the power of hope’ in Christmas speech recorded at Laeken Royal Palace in Brussels
King Philippe of Belgium delivered his annual Christmas speech today at the Royal Palace of Laeken in Brussels, Belgium.
In his address, Philippe, 63, emphasized the “power of hope” as a means of overcoming the “dark times” experienced this year, referring to wars in Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan and the Middle East.
“Our thoughts are with the countless victims of unbearable acts of terrorism and war,” Philip said in an address broadcast on national television and radio.
The message was pre-recorded in French, Dutch and German to reflect the three official languages of Belgium.
It is usually delivered during a Christmas concert hosted by members of the Belgian royal family, as a thank you to the royal staff for their services. But the family will not be holding the concert this year due to ongoing renovations at the Royal Palace.
King Philippe of Belgium delivered his annual Christmas speech at the Royal Palace of Laeken in Brussels, Belgium.
The king praised Belgium as an intercultural society where people of different backgrounds and beliefs work together to shape the future.
However, he acknowledged that “violence caused by exclusion, discrimination and racism still persists in our society” and acknowledged the need to overcome these problems and create a more inclusive nation.
“Violence breeds fear, it feeds anxiety and a sense of powerlessness in the face of an uncertain future,” Philip said in response to geopolitical shifts and climate challenges.
However, the king emphasized the importance of the “power of hope,” which he called a “life-giving force” that can eliminate “fear and anxiety that discourage and paralyze, even lead to violence.”
He explained that hope leads us down a path illuminated by those who support democracy, engage in listening and debate, and demonstrate respect for others.
“It is the energy we draw from within, strengthened by those who actively strive for a better world.”
Individuals working towards social justice and peace were especially commended. In addition, recognition was given to those who are dedicated to delivering the benefits of science and technology solutions, especially in the context of the energy transition.
Philippe also addressed the next generation, expressing his wish that future Belgians have the opportunity to “build a better future.”
Concluding his speech, he said: “Together with my wife Queen Matilda, our children and my entire family, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
Princess Elizabeth of Belgium was effortlessly stylish in an azure blue dress as she joined her siblings and parents for a Christmas reception at the Royal Palace in Brussels.
The palace welcomed around a hundred volunteers, staff and people supported by organizations with which the King and Queen have worked over the years.
The royals posed for a group photo with invitees, and other sweet photos of the family showed them standing by an ornate Christmas tree and later among the season’s red flowers.
It comes after King Philip, 63, attended a Christmas party with his wife Queen Matilda, 50, and children Princess Elizabeth, 22, Prince Emmanuel, 18, and Princess Eleanor, 15.
The palace welcomed about a hundred volunteers, staff and people supported by organizations with which the King and Queen have worked over the years to the event.
It replaces the annual Christmas concert, which will not take place this year due to renovations to the venue.
The royals posed for a group photo with invitees, and other sweet photos of the family showed them standing by an ornate Christmas tree and later among the season’s red flowers.
Elizabeth looked elegant as always in a cobalt turtleneck dress and simple black boots.
She wore a festive and fun smoky eye makeup look and wore loose waves for the occasion.
Meanwhile, her mother, Matilda, lit up the room with a glittering gold coat embroidered with floral patterns.
She buttoned it over chic black culottes and stilettos, slicking back her blonde locks.
Her youngest daughter Eleanor showed she’s adopted the family’s fashion savvy by wearing trendy red trousers and a black sequined top.
She copied her sister’s glittery eye makeup and left her blonde locks in loose waves.
Elsewhere, Philip opted for a navy suit with a colorful paisley tie, matching his son Emmanuel’s simple but formal look.
The royals also have a second son, 20-year-old Gabriel, who is currently studying at the Royal Military Academy of Belgium and has not been born.