Top 10 Strict Rules Royal Couples Have to Follow

Members of royal families are often required to seek approval from the reigning monarch before entering into marriage. This protocol serves multiple purposes, including maintaining the lineage and safeguarding the prestige of the monarchy. The process typically involves a formal request submitted to the reigning monarch, outlining the details of the proposed marriage. The monarch carefully evaluates the request, considering factors such as the suitability of the spouse, their background, and any potential implications for the family and the monarchy. This tradition ensures that unions are not entered into lightly and that they align with the expectations and values of the royal institution.

Royals are expected to speak with a distinct and refined manner, embodying professionalism, diplomacy, and tradition. Firstly, clarity and enunciation are paramount. They are trained to articulate their words clearly, ensuring that their messages are easily understood. They often receive elocution lessons to refine their pronunciation. Secondly, diplomacy is a core element of speech, and they must be careful in their choice of words, avoiding controversial or offensive language, particularly in public settings. Neutrality in political matters is also essential. Thirdly, addressing hierarchy is crucial. Royals use appropriate titles and forms of address when speaking to each other or to individuals of different ranks. Lastly, public speeches are often scripted and meticulously prepared to convey specific messages while maintaining a dignified and composed demeanor.

The royal dress code is highly stringent, emphasizing modesty, formality, and adherence to tradition. They must choose attire that is dignified and appropriate for their status and the nature of the event. Women often wear hats or fascinators at formal events and avoid overly revealing clothes, while men typically wear suits, formal military attire, or other traditional garments. The dress code varies with the occasion, time of day, and specific traditions of each family. This strict approach to clothing reflects the values and heritage of the monarchy, ensuring that members of the family present themselves in a manner that upholds the dignity and prestige of their positions.

Royals are typically prohibited from signing autographs or taking selfies with the public. This rule is in place primarily for security reasons, as well as to maintain a certain level of formality and dignity associated with their status. Autographs could potentially be used for fraudulent purposes, and selfies could compromise security measures. Additionally, engaging in such informal activities could detract from the family's image of being above popular culture and trends. By maintaining these boundaries, the royals ensure their interactions with the public remain controlled and consistent with their duties and image.

Maintaining political neutrality is a fundamental principle. They are expected to stay above the political fray, refraining from voting or expressing political opinions publicly. This is to ensure the monarchy remains a symbol of national unity and continuity, transcending the divisions of party politics. The monarch and their family serve as a non-partisan figurehead, avoiding any actions or statements that could be interpreted as political bias. This strict rule helps preserve the dignity and impartiality of the institution, ensuring it remains separate from the government and political processes.

Royal dining etiquette is notably strict and detailed, encompassing a wide range of rules and customs. Royals must adhere to precise manners, such as using cutlery in a specific order and engaging in proper table conversation. The way they eat, such as how to hold utensils and the pace of eating, is also governed by protocol. For instance, once the Queen finishes eating, others should stop as well. These rules ensure that members of the royal family uphold the traditions and dignity of the monarchy, even in their dining habits.

The protocol for public displays of affection (or, PDA) is quite restrictive. Members of the royal family are expected to keep physical affection in public to a minimum to maintain a sense of formality and decorum. While there's no official rule explicitly forbidding PDA, it's understood that royals should exhibit a professional demeanor in public appearances. This means that gestures like holding hands or hugging are rare and usually subtle when they do occur. The expectation is especially high during official duties or state functions, where maintaining a regal and dignified image is paramount.

Royals are subjected to stringent travel protocols that ensure their safety, comfort, and adherence to diplomatic norms. Extensive security measures are put in place, including rigorous background checks and coordination with local authorities. Family members often travel with a team of security personnel to mitigate risks, and travel plans must align with official duties and diplomatic schedules. Trips are meticulously planned, with itineraries outlining every detail, from transportation to accommodation. Royals are also expected to represent their countries positively during overseas visits, adhering to strict codes of conduct. Furthermore, packing is a precise affair, with specific clothing, including formal attire and traditional garments for official functions.

Curtseying and bowing are integral components of etiquette, marked by a high degree of formality and precision. These gestures are performed to convey respect, hierarchy, and tradition. When meeting another royal, the rules dictate that the lower-ranking individual initiates the gesture. For example, when a subject meets a reigning monarch, they should bow or curtsey first. The depth of the bow or the degree of the curtsey often depends on the relative ranks of the individuals involved. Royals must be mindful of the strict protocols in place to ensure they adhere to tradition and maintain a dignified image. This practice extends to various formal occasions, such as state banquets and public events, where the appropriate gesture is essential.

The royal family adheres to an exceptionally strict media protocol designed to safeguard their privacy and maintain their public image. Royals typically engage with the media through designated spokespersons and carefully controlled channels. They maintain a distinct separation between their personal lives and public roles. Interviews and interactions with the media are often limited to specific topics, such as official engagements, charitable work, or public initiatives. Royals must exercise discretion in their public statements to avoid political bias or controversy. Furthermore, the release of official photographs and information is tightly regulated. The media protocol ensures that their refined image remains consistent and in alignment with their roles as symbols of unity and continuity.

Is there another strict royal rule to add to this list? Let us know in the comments.