PROTOCOL OF THE IMPERIAL AND ROYAL HOUSE

I. Order of Precedence

The Order of Precedence dictates the formal hierarchy during official functions, ceremonies, and processions of the House.

  • The Prince-Regent: As the Head of the House and Grand Master of the Imperial Orders, the Prince-Regent always occupies the position of highest honor.

  • The Crown Princess and Princess-Chancellor: As the immediate heir and chief administrative officer, the Crown Princess follows the Prince-Regent in all formal settings.

  • Knights and Dames of the Görlitz Eagle: Members of the House’s chivalric order follow the Royal Family, ranked according to their specific grade (e.g., Grand Cross, Knight Commander) and date of investiture.

  • Visiting Dignitaries: In accordance with international courtesy, visiting heads of houses or high-ranking government officials from entities like other Royal Houses or the State Department are accorded precedence immediately following the Prince-Regent.

II. State Dinners and Formal Receptions

State dinners serve as the primary vehicle for "Fraternal Diplomacy" and the strengthening of international ties.

  • Seating Arrangements: The Prince-Regent is seated at the center of the high table, with the most senior guest of honor to his immediate right.

  • The Loyal Toast: Every State Dinner concludes with a formal toast to the House, the ancestors (including William the Conqueror and the Plantagenet Kings), and the continued prosperity of the Mende people.

  • Dress Code: The standard for formal House functions is White Tie or Black Tie, with members of the Imperial Order of the Görlitz Eagle authorized to wear their neck ribbons and breast stars. Military Veterans and active security personnel may wear their formal dress uniforms.

III. Honors of Travel (The Sovereign Progress)

When the Prince-Regent travels on official missions, such as for the Mende Heritage & Literacy Initiative, specific protocols are observed.

  • The Advance Party: The Chief of Protocol or a designated security lead from the Prince-Regent's detail performs a site survey 24 hours prior to arrival.

  • Arrival Ceremony: Upon arrival in a foreign jurisdiction, the Prince-Regent is to be met by a local liaison or diplomatic attaché.

  • The Imperial Standard: While in residence, the sovereign’s Imperial standard may be displayed to signal the Prince-Regent's presence.

IV. Honors of Address and Salutation

Maintaining protocol requires consistent use of formal styles.

  • Formal Introduction: "His Imperial and Royal Highness, Amir, Prince-Regent of Luxembourg-Görlitz and Somerset".

  • First Reference: Upon first meeting, the Prince-Regent is addressed as "Your Imperial and Royal Highness".

  • Subsequent Reference: In continued conversation, the style of "Sir" is acceptable, reflecting the Prince-Regent's background as a military veteran and professional official.