Queen Máxima of the Netherlands Joins Army as Reservist

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has volunteered for military service and will serve as a reservist in the Dutch armed forces, the Royal Household in The Hague announced on Friday.

In an official statement, the palace said that the wife of King Willem-Alexander, 54, has already completed her first day of service. 

Following a brief period of military training, Queen Máxima is expected to work with the armed forces for a period of time.

By taking this step, Queen Máxima follows the example of her eldest daughter, Crown Princess Amalia, who recently completed her basic training as an army reservist. 

The heir to the throne plans to combine her military duties with her university studies.

The move comes as part of a broader effort to encourage members of the royal family to play an active role in public service and to strengthen the monarchy’s support for the Dutch armed forces.

In the Netherlands, reservists form a flexible backup force for the military and can be deployed when needed. 

They may be called upon during emergencies such as flooding or in the event of armed conflict.

The announcement highlights a growing emphasis on civic responsibility within the Dutch royal family and underscores the symbolic role of the monarchy in promoting national service.