I am sitting on my balcony in The Hague, sipping Americanos and watching King Charles III’s coronation, pondering its implications for the monarchy, the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth.
The last televised coronation in colour was in 1953, when Queen Elizabeth II assumed the role of monarch and head of the Commonwealth. Charles has awaited his turn since his birth in 1948.
The wealth of England, and the royal family’s heritage, can be traced to slavery and the exploitation of India. However, Britain in 2023 is a diverse, multicultural, and multifaith society.
Charles is known for his desire to be a ‘defender of faiths,’ and he delivered a powerful speech on the relationship between England and Islam in 1993. I met him in 2009 to discuss his MOSAIC initiative for empowering young Muslims in inner-city areas. He is sincere and committed to supporting vulnerable communities.
Not everyone has had personal experiences with the king, and opinions about the monarchy’s relevance vary. The institution may not fully represent the diversity of modern Britain, and some minorities may feel excluded. However, opinions among minority groups are diverse and multidimensional.
The royal family’s influence on public discourse and national identity can impact minorities’ sense of belonging in British society. Perspectives on the monarchy differ across the UK, with some Scots, Welsh, and Northern Irish viewing it as a symbol of English dominance.
King Charles III’s role in the Commonwealth is significant, particularly for British ethnic minorities with ties to Commonwealth nations. Some may view the monarchy as unrepresentative and exclusive, while others see it as reinforcing power structures that disadvantage minorities.
The monarchy’s history with colonialism and imperialism can be a source of pain for some ethnic minorities. Additionally, some royal family members have faced accusations of racist behaviours or remarks.
A recent YouGov poll revealed that ethnic minority Britons generally have neutral views of the monarchy, but younger respondents were less likely to hold positive opinions. Differences in attitudes were also observed based on race and social class.
A study by British Future and Focaldata Research found lower support for the monarchy among young people and racial minorities. Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, believes that King Charles III, as a multiculturalist king, can reconcile tradition with a changing Britain.
In summary, minority perspectives on the monarchy and the new king are complex and diverse. The monarchy’s role in shaping public discourse and national identity is significant, and it remains to be seen how King Charles III will navigate these challenges and opportunities.
[This is an abridged version of a Medium post published on 4 May]