Reasonable or not, Greek people reaction over the use of royal titles by the descendants of the former royal family!

Reasonable or not, Greek people reaction over the use of royal titles by the descendants of the former royal family! 

Recently, I noticed a post on the personal Facebook wall of a dear friend of mine, Maria, who works as a journalist. Her post expressed frustration and indignation over the comments made by some of her friends regarding her reference to Pavlos Glücksburg, formerly Prince Pavlos of Greece, as "Prince Pavlos" for journalistic reasons, in order to highlight a charitable initiative.

Some of her friends' or followers' reactions may have been extreme regarding her use of the title "Prince Pavlos," but on the other hand, I would like to express my thoughts on this matter with this post.

The reaction in Greece to Prince Pavlos and the use of the title "Prince" reflects the complex relationship that undoubtedly exists between modern Greek democracy and its royal past.

As we all know, our country abolished the monarchy through a referendum in 1974, establishing its identity as a parliamentary democracy. For many Greeks, this was understandably a defining moment in the country's democratic evolution, emphasizing sovereignty and, most importantly, equality over hereditary power.

The use of royal titles by the descendants of the former royal family is considered by some to be contrary to the principles of equality embedded in democracy. These titles, on the one hand, are not legally recognized in Greece, and their use can understandably be seen as undermining the democratic ideology.

At the same time, the role of the monarchy in Greece’s turbulent political history, such as its involvement in political crises and its associations with foreign influence, has left deep sensitivities within Greek society. Many Greeks view reminders of the monarchy as a step backward.

Lastly, the frequent expression of Greek pride in being the cradle of democracy contrasts with the use of royal titles by individuals who no longer officially belong to Greek governance. This is perceived as a failed attempt to maintain outdated hierarchies, which contradicts democratic values.

The perspective expressed by Prince Pavlos, that his title is part of his heritage, much like a surname or family tradition, and that many monarchies around the world retain symbolic or ceremonial roles without political power, does not, in my opinion, resonate well. In the Greek context, even the symbolic use of such titles evokes strong emotions.

Ultimately, my personal view on the negative comments directed at my friend is that the reaction to Prince Pavlos’s use of his title instead of his name, Pavlos Glücksburg, underscores the tension between historical heritage and modern national identity. While it is his personal choice to identify as "Prince," the public outcry highlights the importance of respecting Greece's democratic values and the will of its people.

A sensitive approach to Greek society and an acknowledgment of the country’s modern republican character, with a President as the Head of State, could help ease tensions and foster mutual respect.

In the end, this issue serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of history on the collective memory of Greeks and the importance of balancing personal expression with public sentiment.

Ultimately, Maria was correct in her approach. However, the public reaction from her audience should, in a deeper sense, bring her satisfaction, as it undeniably reflects, to my knowledge, a deeply democratic spirit.