Jan Björklund takes up his new position as Marshal of the Realm and Head of the Royal Court on January 1, 2026, where he succeeds Fredrik Wersäll.
Why I was asked, I don't know, but I know why I said yes. It's going to be fun to start working with the court, which is a very professional organization, and I'm very honored about the trust I've been given by the king, says Jan Björklund>.
Björklund has been the ambassador to Italy since 2020. He is an educated professional officer and was the party leader for The Liberals 2007-2019, minister 2006-2014, and deputy prime minister during the years 2014.
I hope to be able to contribute with the experiences I've gathered both within the defense forces, government work, and diplomacy. The monarchy is important for Sweden and the king's role is to be unifying for Sweden and the Swedish people, and it's especially important in these turbulent times, says Jan Björklund.
Close relation
He becomes the 48th Marshal of the Realm since the office was established in 1607 and the current king's ninth Marshal of the Realm. The Marshal of the Realm is the head of the court's approximately 300 employees, the king's closest adviser, and has responsibility for the court's and the head of state's contacts with the government and the parliament.
How well do you know each other, you and the king?
Know is a strong word, but I've worked closely with both the king and the crown princess when I was in the government and was deputy prime minister for four years. But this will, of course, be a much closer relationship.
Creates stability
Would you describe yourself as a royalist?
I am for the monarchy, it has very strong support both in the parliament and in public opinion. It has existed for several hundred years and creates continuity, says Jan Björklund.
Fredrik Wersäll, currently acting Grand Chancellor, becomes the Grand Chancellor and highest responsible for the activities at the Royal Majesty's Orders on January 1, 2026.
