Crown Princess Victoria celebrates century of women's defence organisation

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden participated in a significant event recently, marking the 100th anniversary of the Women's Voluntary Defence Organisation at Skogshem & Wijk in Lidingö, Sweden. This historical organisation, founded in 1924 and known as the Svenska Lottakåren (SLK), is the largest defence entity in Sweden exclusively for women. The Crown Princess, who recently turned 47, was spotted in high spirits, dressed in sophisticated military attire complemented by a sleek up-do. The event not only celebrated a century of female contributions to defence but also showcased the royal's commitment to military affairs as she delivered a speech and engaged warmly with attendees, highlighting the importance of women's roles in national defence. Earlier in the month, Victoria had attended the Swedish Defence Day in Stockholm, where she also made a style statement in a royal blue military ensemble. This coincided with the announcement that she would undergo special officer training in the coming autumn, aimed at deepening her understanding of military strategy and tactics. This training represents her dedication to representing Sweden and its Armed Forces effectively in the future. Her prior experience includes a basic military training course at the Swedish Armed Forces International Centre back in 2003, demonstrating a longstanding interest in military matters. Victoria's commitment to these initiatives emphasizes the royal family's active role in engaging with contemporary social issues. In terms of public engagements, the Crown Princess exemplified elegance and authority, whether she was at the anniversary event or participating in military-themed events. Notably, during a 25th anniversary reception in Berlin, Victoria wore a burgundy velvet skirt suit, showcasing her fashion-forward choices while reinforcing her diplomatic role. The growing emphasis on military training within the royal family, particularly for Princess Victoria and her daughter Princess Estelle, points to a broader trend of involving the next generation of royals in national affairs, ensuring they are well-versed in topics that impact national security and public service. Thus, the recent anniversary celebration serves not only as a tribute to the accomplishments of the Women's Voluntary Defence Organisation but also as a catalyst for continuing conversations on women's involvement in defence and military roles, aligning with Crown Princess Victoria's vision for the future.