Upon their arrival in Colombia, Prince Harry and Meghan are embarking on their second significant international journey following their departure from the Royal Family.
His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness were graciously received by vice president Francia Marquez at her private residence, following her invitation for a four-day stay.
This visit aims to not only highlight the cultural richness of the country but also bring attention to the couple’s personal interests, including the influence of the digital realm on youth, honoring the military community, and advocating for gender equality.
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‘This is a woman who deserves to come to our country to tell her story’
Pic: AP
Prior to their arrival, the vice president expressed how viewing their Netflix series detailing their Royal Family departure had motivated her to extend the invitation.
She articulated, “The documentary deeply touched me and compelled me to believe that this woman should come to our country and share her journey. This interaction will undoubtedly empower countless women globally.”
Their initial day will be spent in Bogota, the capital city, where they are scheduled to visit a school to engage with adolescents on the importance of online security, witness a cultural exhibition, and participate in a summit organized by Ms. Marquez addressing the critical need to address the adverse impacts of technology and digital platforms.
Their choice to journey to Colombia has sparked significant interest due to security concerns.
The current US travel advisory for Colombia stands at level 3, advising individuals to “reconsider travel”; however, the couple, in contrast, express their reluctance to visit the UK due to the removal of their police protection.
Harry and Meghan meet Francia Marquez. Pic: Reuters
Photo: Reuters
According to Simon Morgan, a former royal protection officer who now works as a private security advisor, they will enlist local security in Colombia in addition to their private team, solely because of an invitation. This sets it apart from Harry’s personal visits to the UK where he doesn’t receive security assistance.
Morgan stated: “While Colombia may not be a conventional destination, it is still feasible to visit. However, stringent security measures need to be implemented due to the challenging environment and the prevailing threats and risks in Colombia, not just from drug cartels but also from far-left extremist groups present there.
“These groups could exploit this event to create embarrassment for the government, instigate destabilization… Given the global attention that the Sussexes’ visit to Colombia will attract, it will put a spotlight on the cartels and far-left extremist activities.”
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Photo: Reuters
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In a legal battle in February, Prince Harry contested the reduction in his security detail after leaving the Royal Family and moving overseas.
However, he was later granted the right to challenge this decision.
In May, he visited London without Meghan, and it is reported that he will not return to the UK for his uncle Sir Robert Fellowes’ funeral this summer.
Photo: Reuters
Morgan emphasizes the intricate nature of the issue, both emotionally and financially.
He remarked: “The challenge stems from the duke’s accustomed 24-hour protection, as he has been raised with that level of security. It’s often stated that the Royal Family receives protection from birth to passing.
“The duke values the continuity provided by his security team and the access to various resources globally that accompany being a protected individual in the UK.
“This presents a complex and emotionally charged issue for both the Sussexes and the police personnel who would have to accompany them. Moreover, it poses logistical challenges for the Metropolitan Police having officers stationed outside the UK.
“Furthermore, it raises legal questions concerning the authorization to carry firearms and utilize force. Hence, it’s a multi-faceted issue.”
During an ITV documentary titled Tabloids On Trial, Prince Harry expressed his concerns over Meghan’s safety if she were to return to the UK.
He added: “The potential risks involve lone individuals who could act on information they glean from such sources, be it with a weapon or any form of attack. These are real concerns for me, which is why I am hesitant to bring my wife back to the UK.”
