Alexander De Croo

Máxima of the Netherlands, Mathilde of Belgium, Letizia of Spain: What do these queens actually do all day? “ZDF-History” offers a glimpse into their daily professional lives. As an economist, a psychologist, and a journalist, the queens are highly qualified for their roles both at home and abroad, such as at the United Nations. Their schedules are tightly packed, and no two days are alike. The wives of the crowned heads of state play a significant role, even though their countries’ constitutions do not assign them any official function. How do Europe’s young queens make use of their leeway? What can they accomplish? Who do they look to as role models? What are the differences between then and now? The film reflects on the role of queens with an eye toward history, the present, and the future.

She has a clear agenda to which she is tirelessly committed: fighting poverty, education, health, and strengthening the rights of women and children. As a trained psychologist, she is a leading figure in the fields of mental health and child welfare. From the Royal Palace, this mother of four has taken up the fight against cyberbullying with a video message she produced herself: “Cyberbullying is despicable!” As honorary president of the “Child Focus” foundation, she advocates for missing and sexually exploited children—an issue that has deeply affected Belgian society since the horrific crimes of Marc Dutroux in the 1990s. As honorary president of UNICEF, she is committed to promoting children’s rights worldwide.

What do you think the world will look like in five years? And how do you think you'll be doing in five years? These provocative questions form the basis of Over 5 Jaar (Over 5 Years), a program produced only every five years. Five years ago, Wim De Vilder visited nine well-known and interesting Flemish people at their homes or workplaces. And he asked them to look into the future, five years ahead. Not easy. The interviews from back then were hidden away for five years. No one could see them. A reason for the guests to really let their guard down. Now, Wim De Vilder confronts the guests with their own predictions.