Prince Johan-Friso (born Johan Friso Bernhard Christiaan David on September 25, 1968) is the second son of Beatrix of the Netherlands and Claus von Amsberg.

The Prince, who was second in line for the throne, worked at the Amsterdam branch of the international management consultancy McKinsey and holds a degree in aeronautical economics and management. To prepare himself for the possibility of succession to the throne, he took courses in Dutch law and parliamentary history.

On 30 June 2003 it was announced that Johan-Friso is to marry Mabel Wisse Smit. The Dutch cabinet however has refused to introduce to parliament a law authorising the marriage, which is necessary if he is to retain succession to the throne. The Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende explained that this was due to discussions with Mabel Smit in October 2003 where she had admitted that her previous statements about an alleged relationship with Klaas Bruinsma (6 October 1953 - 27 June 1991), known as a Godfather of the Dutch drugs trade, had not been complete and accurate. She had previously stated that she had contact for a few months with Bruinsma, but in a casual context, not intimate or relating to business and that she had broken the contact on learning of Bruinsma's occupation. This "breach of trust" was the reason for not giving approval, and the request for approval was also withdrawn by the couple. However they still intend to marry in early 2004 and Mabel Smit will become a member of the Dutch royal family.

External link