The Next Generation

Today’s featured post comes to us from our GLOBALHealthPR Spain partner, Berbés Asociados.

Last Monday, in the wake of elections to the European Parliament and with no prior warning, the media was caught off-guard by an announcement by Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy to call a press conference. The reason was to inform of changes to the country’s monarchy. The media were unanimous: King Juan Carlos’s abdication was a virtual certainty. Now it is a reality.

19 June 2014 now claims its place in history, as this will be when Juan Carlos’ son, the Prince of Asturias, is crowned King Felipe VI of Spain.

Juan Carlos occupied the throne for almost four decades and played an important role in Spanish history. Initially his coronation, following the death of General Franco, signaled a new period for Spain and the end of the 36-year dictatorship. After all this time, Juan Carlos has shown signs of physical frailty in recent months. He has appeared tired and has been beset with health problems. Over the past five years, he has undergone surgery nine times, mostly due to bone and joint problems. Despite being in the hands of the top surgeons and carers and not suffering any serious illnesses, the characteristic signs of ageing have left their mark on him. Now is the time for the new generation.

Changes can sometimes prove unnerving, but with perspective and optimism they can produce innovation, progress and new hopes. In the final analysis, it is imperative to keep growing and to adapt to circumstances. Without doubt, energy, motivation and the possibility of facing new challenges and opportunities are also important.

At Berbés Asociados, we have enjoyed the opportunity to work with the Royal Household on several occasions. Both the Prince and Princess of Asturias have accepted our invitations to attend the openings of some of our clients’ manufacturing facilities and centres of excellence. Their availability and participation is an opportunity that has helped us grow as an agency and acquire experience in matters of protocol.

Images:

1. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7e/Busto_de_Juan_Carlos_I_de_Espa%C3%B1a_%282009%29.jpg
2. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7b/Felipe_de_Borb%C3%B3n_en_Ecuador.jpg