Prince George's 12th Birthday Highlights Future Royal Role, William's Succession Challenges

Prince George, who recently turned 12, is entering a significant phase in his royal life as the future king, with his parents Prince William and Kate Middleton aiming to provide him with as normal an upbringing as possible. Traditionally, when Prince William turned 12, he began traveling separately from King Charles and Prince Harry to protect the royal line of succession, a protocol that may present a dilemma for William due to environmental concerns and the impact of separate travel on young George. Despite these customs, royal experts suggest that William and Kate may not strictly enforce this rule for George, continuing to travel together for practical and familial reasons. While Prince George is gradually introduced to royal duties, including attending public engagements like a Buckingham Palace tea party, his parents are not rushing him into formal royal training, instead encouraging him when he shows interest. As His Majesty King Charles ages and the monarchy streamlines, there will be increased demand on senior royals to fulfill official duties, with Prince George expected to take on more responsibilities as he approaches adulthood. This period is viewed as critical for the royal family, balancing tradition, modern parenting, and the evolving role of the monarchy.