A royal proclamation is a public announcement made by a monarch or a ruling authority, usually to inform the public about a new law or policy. Synonyms for the term include declaration, edict, pronouncement, announcement, statement, and mandate. A proclamation may also be called a command, directive, order, or decree. It is a formal and authoritative message that carries the weight of law and is generally binding on the public. Proclamations can be issued for a variety of reasons, including to recognize or honor individuals, to establish new policies or laws, to declare war, or to grant pardons or amnesty.