Prince Harry and Meghan have arrived in Colombia for their second significant overseas tour since stepping back from the Royal Family. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were greeted by Vice President Francia Márquez at her private residence, following her invitation for their four-day visit.
The visit aims to highlight Colombia’s cultural heritage while shedding light on the couple’s personal advocacies, including the impact of the digital world on youth, celebrating the military community, and promoting female empowerment. Vice President Márquez extended the invitation after being moved by the couple’s Netflix documentary about their departure from the Royal Family, expressing that Meghan’s story could inspire many women worldwide.
On their first day in Bogotá, the couple plans to visit a school to discuss online safety with teenagers, watch a cultural presentation, and attend a summit hosted by the Vice President. The summit will address the urgent need to combat harmful aspects of technology and digital platforms.
Their decision to visit Colombia has drawn attention due to security concerns. Despite the U.S. travel advisory for Colombia being at level 3, advising reconsideration of travel, the couple feels unsafe visiting the UK after losing police protection. Simon Morgan, a former royal protection officer now working as a private security consultant, explained that they will receive local security in Colombia alongside their private team because they were officially invited. Morgan noted that the environment and current threats in Colombia, including drug cartels and far-left terrorists, require meticulous security planning.
In February, Prince Harry lost a High Court challenge over the decision to downgrade his security after leaving the Royal Family but was later allowed to appeal. In May, he visited London alone and is not expected to return for his uncle Sir Robert Fellowes’ funeral this summer.
Morgan described the security issue as emotionally and financially complex. Prince Harry is accustomed to 24-hour protection and values the continuity of his security team. This continuity offers access to global resources similar to those available in the UK. The issue also involves logistical challenges for the Met Police regarding officers’ deployment outside the UK and legal considerations about carrying arms and using force.
In the ITV documentary “Tabloids On Trial,” Prince Harry expressed concerns about Meghan returning to the UK, citing potential danger from individuals acting on harmful content they read. He mentioned that these concerns are why he won’t bring his wife back to the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why are Prince Harry and Meghan visiting Colombia?
They were invited by vice president Francia Marquez to showcase Colombia’s cultural heritage and focus on their personal priorities.
What activities are planned for Prince Harry and Meghan in Colombia?
They will visit a school, watch a cultural showcase, and attend a summit on technology’s harmful aspects.
Why is security an issue for Prince Harry and Meghan’s visit to Colombia?
Colombia has risks related to drug cartels and far-left terrorists, requiring additional security measures.
Why don’t Prince Harry and Meghan feel safe visiting the UK?
Their police protection was removed, and Prince Harry cited genuine concerns for their safety.
What inspired vice president Francia Marquez to invite Prince Harry and Meghan?
She was moved by their Netflix documentary about leaving the Royal Family.
