On Saturday 12th July, Prince Albert II of Monaco marked 20 years since ascending the throne. In a candid interview with Monaco-Matin, the Sovereign opened up about fatherhood, political responsibility, transparency, and the future of the Principality – revealing a reign defined by personal conviction and deep commitment to public service.
Looking ahead to the public reception planned for 19th July on the Palace square, Prince Albert told the local newspaper, “Princess Charlene and I wanted to organise this reception in the Place du Palais. It will be wonderful and simple. These are moments of togetherness that we love to share with my family and the wider Monegasque family.”
He described the event as an opportunity to thank those “who, through their daily commitment, bring our Principality to life”, and as a chance to “look ahead to the future with a spirit of unity, confidence, and also responsibility – the responsibility I have towards the Monegasques, and the one they carry as citizens and residents of the Principality.”
Governing through “the reign of impatience”
Recalling how, in 2005, he received 200 congratulatory telegrams a day, the Prince noted how the speed of information and social media have changed his role as head of state. “Like all leaders, I am exposed to constant pressure and the pressure of immediacy, which can sometimes be hard to bear. We must always be listening – to what is said, to aspirations, to impatience. It is our duty not to lose sight of the pressure of the moment, but we must also maintain coherence over time.”
He continued, “By nature, a head of state’s role is framed within a limited duration. I’m fortunate that mine is a little longer, with a vision that spans several years. That means preserving quality dialogue, resisting hysteria and knee-jerk reactions. Maybe it’s harder today than it used to be – but every era has its challenges.”
Fatherhood, family and renewed purpose
Asked by Monaco Matin how fatherhood has shaped him since the birth of Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, Albert responded, “Of course it’s changed me – all leaders who are fathers will tell you that. It changed me first as a man, bringing immense happiness. Then, the birth of Jacques and Gabriella only deepened my sensitivity to long-term issues: education, the environment, social cohesion.”
He added, “Children bring out a different kind of kindness, but also a higher standard we set for ourselves. They are a daily source of inspiration, and it’s important to listen to how they feel. They remind parents of what really matters – to act for those we love. Our family, of course, but also the whole Monegasque community.”
On the support of his immediate and extended family, Prince Albert said, “The presence of my family and loved ones is essential – first and foremost Princess Charlène and our children, with their radiant presence. My sisters are also always there, sometimes discreetly, but very present and very active in the causes they support. My nieces and nephews are a source of balance and joy. They reassure me in my duties and I can only thank them for all they do for the Principality.”
He pushed back against speculation in blogs and media, saying, “We were all raised to serve the public and the common good. That’s what guides all our actions. We are not here to gain anything personally. And I want to be very clear: I am guided only by the general interest.”
“Jacques will have to forge his own path”
Speaking about his hopes for Prince Jacques, the hereditary prince, Prince Albert shared a phrase he intends to pass on to his son: “I hope to hand down to him a Principality that is neither quite the same nor entirely different.”
He described the Monaco of the future as one that remains “proud of its values and its past, serene, prosperous, responsible and united – and, of course, rooted in the modern world, with the same ambition for progress, innovation and the most sustainable development possible.”
The Prince likened future leadership to sport: “You can train very thoroughly and prepare for every scenario, but there are always unforeseen events – and you have to respond as best as possible.”
“I am not influenced by anyone – I make my decisions freely”
Addressing criticism and internal tensions within Monaco’s political scene, Prince Albert was frank: “I deeply regret this toxic wind – these rumours and the poison of personal rivalries. In a small country, there are always rivalries between groups and families, but it’s unfortunate when that spills out publicly.”
He insisted: “The trust and unity between the institutions, the Monegasques, and myself remain strong… I make the decisions I believe are right for the Principality, in complete freedom and full responsibility. Some people boast that they can influence me or make me change my mind – the truth is, I always take in multiple perspectives, and that’s why my decisions aren’t always immediate.”
On Monaco’s evolving legal and financial frameworks, the Sovereign supported the need for transparency: “International bodies have been watching closely – and that’s a good thing. It’s pushed us to improve. Everyone is aware of it and there’s a momentum.”
But, he warned, “Transparency isn’t a threat. It’s a tool of legitimacy. It needs to be controlled and framed – it’s now unavoidable in global relations. We must neither suffer it nor reject it, but embrace it wisely. I think Monegasques and residents understand that this modernisation is absolutely essential.”
A message to the youth: “Go abroad – and then come home”
To the younger generation, Prince Albert offered clear advice: “It’s important to travel, to study and train outside the Principality – and then to come back and contribute to our country’s progress. Never lose confidence in our economic and social model. It’s the most suited to Monaco, and it must be allowed to endure.”
He added, “Young people must stay aware of the fast-changing world around us – to take the best of it and help us move forward, all while remaining true to our values.”
On the rise of nationalism and citizens leaving the Principality, the Prince said, “To those who have had to leave Monaco, sometimes unwillingly, I want to say that they are not forgotten. We work every day to build a society that is more accessible, more dynamic and more humane – with the hope that many of them will return.”
“We’ve always found ways to secure Monaco’s future”
As a long-standing environmental advocate, Prince Albert II acknowledged the challenges of diplomacy, but reaffirmed Monaco’s role as a bridge-builder: “It’s difficult, but precisely in those moments we must stay true to our convictions. My role, and Monaco’s, is to be that link – to bring something different, a moderate but firm voice.”
On the environment, he said, “Monaco’s voice is heard, followed and respected. The urgency isn’t yet shared by everyone – but more and more people are getting it. I hope we can keep taking that message further and stronger.”
Asked if he still hopes to convince Donald Trump, he smiled: “I haven’t given up. I’m trying to find the right moment and the right opportunities – but it’s going to be a tough battle.”
Looking back on two decades, Prince Albert II said his motivation is unwavering: “What drives me is the love for my country, the sense of duty, and the trust the Monegasques place in me. Governing means anticipating, but also facing challenges with loyalty and resolve… In Monaco’s history, we’ve always found ways to secure our future – even in tough and uncertain times. If we stay united, enthusiastic, innovative and supportive, we’ll have one of the happiest futures possible.”
Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, catch our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.
Photo: Prince Albert II speaking at the Monaco Blue Initiative, photo source: FPA2