The Double Standard in Royal Families
When we look at other European monarchies, it becomes clear that this level of scrutiny is not applied equally to all heirs — especially not to male royals.
Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway, for example, has been seen in public with her then-boyfriend, sometimes even accompanied by members of the royal family, including the King and Queen of Norway. Her younger brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, has also been spotted with his girlfriend in official settings, and it has never been a scandal.
In Denmark, Princess Isabella was photographed at a music festival with a boy when she was just 17, a completely normal situation for someone her age. Meanwhile, her older brother, Crown Prince Christian, the future King of Denmark, has been filmed at a party standing close to a blonde woman and even drinking alcohol. While it sparked some discussion, it never truly threatened his public image as a modern heir.
So why is Princess Leonor not given the same space to make mistakes, grow, and experience life?
Expecting royal women to be flawless while their male counterparts are allowed to enjoy a normal youth is a reflection of outdated standards. Princesses should be able to date, go out, dance, and have fun — just like any other young person.
If other European monarchies are already shifting towards this reality, perhaps it’s time for Spain to move past the obsession with unattainable purity and allow Leonor to be seen not just as the future queen, but as a real person.
