Queen Elizabeth turns 90
Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 90th birthday yesterday. She has been on the throne since 1952 and is the world's oldest reigning monarch. Journalists examine what society can learn from the sprightly queen.
What a monarchy has that a republic doesn't
Because Queen Elizabeth II has never had to face election the British public is more accepting of her role as head of state, the Times explains:
“Though a constitutional monarchy is a ridiculous system to introduce, it has turned out to be a very good system to keep. Beyond the reach of the political winds, almost forcibly sequestered from partisanship, the Queen can belong to us all more easily. If your favourite presidential candidate loses an election you may well feel no connection to the new head of state. The monarch has no such problem. Since the institution lies somewhere between myth and imagination, everyone can claim something of the sovereign.”
A model for Finland's policies for seniors
The British Queen's good health despite her age should give politicians in other countries - including Finland - who deal with policies for senior citizens food for thought, newspaper Savon Sanomat comments:
“One simply has to admire the Queen's sense of duty. She could have passed on the crown to her son Charles, 67, years ago. And William, 33 years old and the next in line for the throne after his father, is no little boy anymore. Twelve prime ministers have governed the country since Elizabeth ascended to the throne in 1952. … The Queen's lengthy career should, however, not be taken as an argument for prolonging the working lives of the Finns. But perhaps it can provide a few lessons for Finland's policies for seniors. For the Queen's good health has a lot to do with the fact that she has something meaningful to do each day.”
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