Death of Elizabeth II: the world faces the end of a reign

The New York Times retrospectively covers Elizabeth II's death on 8 September 2022 as the end of a chapter: 70 years from Churchill to Truss, a figure who lived through decolonisation and Brexit. The paper blends respect and analysis — Westminster ceremonies, endless queue, late heir Charles III — while opening debate on Empire, colonies and monarchy relevance in the 21st century. Comparisons with other monarchies or Diana recall the crown remains a prism through which Americans view British identity.

Le Monde places the passing in a Franco-British and European perspective: official tributes, global TV coverage, but also questions on post-Brexit UK's role. The daily recalls Elizabeth's France visits, her French and political discretion, while noting criticism of imperial legacy and Charles's succession in an economically crisis-hit country. Retrospectives stress contrast between momentary mourning unity and British social fractures.

Al Jazeera covers Elizabeth II's death with dual focus: protocol respect in Gulf Commonwealth-linked countries, and sharp Global South criticism of colonial legacy — Kenya, Mau Mau, partitions, slavery. The outlet recalls millions of former Empire subjects did not mourn the same way, and Caribbean countries accelerate republicanism. Comparative analyses show British monarchy remains a polarising symbol in a post-colonial world.

TASS retrospectively approaches Elizabeth II's death as a major protocol event for a historic ally — with nuances: London in energy and political crisis, tense relations with Moscow since Ukraine. The agency recalls Elizabeth-Soviet meetings in the Cold War and British institutional continuity. Analyses stress the UK exits this transition weakened — Brexit, inflation, royal scandals — in an unstable European context.

Xinhua presents Elizabeth II's death as a major dynastic transition for an important trade partner — with a view on tense Sino-British relations since Hong Kong and 5G. The agency covers protocol tributes while recalling Beijing has its own priorities: post-Brexit trade, investment, stability. Retrospectives compare British monarchy to Chinese political systems to show global mourning mostly reflects Western soft power — not global consensus on monarchic legitimacy.