Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Why can a child monarch lead to a regency?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
monarchy
Augustus, bronze sculpture from Meroe, Sudan, 1st century ce; in the British Museum.
A child monarch often leads to a regency because the sovereign is in their minority, meaning they are too young to exercise the full powers and responsibilities of the throne.
In such cases, a regent or a body of regents is appointed to govern the country on behalf of the nominal sovereign until they reach the age of majority or are otherwise capable of ruling. This arrangement ensures that the functions of the state continue to be managed during the ruler's incapacity, absence, or youth.123