Queen Margrethe of Denmark and King Harald of Norway gave their yearly televised New Year’s speeches late on December 31st. In them, they discussed the troubles their countries faced in 2008, and the challenges ahead. 
The Danish Queen began her speech with how things used to be better for her country until recently.
“We have long accustomed us that everything went better and better for tomorrow accounted still brighter,” said the Queen.
“Now painted with darker colors, but we still look up and out and put our concerns in relation to a wider perspective.”
The sovereign touched on issues such as the faltering economy. She told the Danish people to keep their heads up.
“Denmark, despite the financial crisis still a rich community and a safe society. It is something which many generations have built up over a long time, and the foundation has primarily been the human resources: diligence and good humor, practical sense paired with kindness.”
Queen Margrethe also pointed out how other countries in the world are suffering more. However, it is Denmark’s responsibility to help those nations too.
“Elsewhere, people are struggling with problems of a different nature. There is hunger and disease, poverty and war. Measured on the scale, Denmark is certainly among the most privileged nations.”
“We have passed more than half a century becoming involved in numerous international forums and Denmark has provided substantial assistance to development in many parts of the world. Particularly in times of need to continue to take an active responsibility. We have possibilities and we have much to offer. We can basically be proud of that.”
Up in Norway, King Harald also talked about the challenges of a failing economy, and also reminded Norwegians that they are not alone in the world.
“The situation we are up in is more serious than we’re used to in Norway today. It will require a lot of us all in the future – both to keep up and trying to cope with changes in many plans.”
“In some parts of the world helps the uncertain global economy to exacerbate humanitarian crises…in addition, there are other major tasks that need our attention and vigor at the same time.”
Mostly however, the King talked about Norway’s multiculturalism and urged his people to embrace it and respect those who are different from them.
“It concerns me that people in our own country are still treated different because of skin color. We feel it in the workplace, in housing and in meeting with the public.”
“Fortunately, we see that it across the country made important efforts to reduce the distinctions and use the resource to our cultural diversity. For many adolescents have been completely normal to be part of a [large group of] youth from many different countries. We who are older have a lot to learn from the younger and their natural relationship to a multi-cultural life.”
“We must all dare to discuss this subject without putting each other in the edges.”
King Harald ended his speech with a rouse to unite the Norwegian people.
“Today, the Norwegian society of people from many countries and cultures. Together we’re building Norway. Together we will be a people who have confidence to see the best in each other.”
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