The blueprint for a leaner monarchy set by King Charles is gradually taking shape, with the royal family seeing a significant reduction in its working members in recent years. One of the major reasons behind this shift is the surprising departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from their royal duties.
Harry and Meghan's decision to relinquish their royal roles to pursue a fresh life in the United States took the world by surprise. Their exit necessitated other royal members to shoulder additional responsibilities, filling the void left by their departure. According to royal expert and former BBC royal correspondent, Jennie Bond, one royal pair has taken up this mantle more than any other.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have been the most affected by Harry and Meghan's withdrawal from their royal responsibilities, claims Bond. Despite their consistent dedication to the Crown, she asserts that they are now serving a more integral function within the monarchy.
Bond provided insight on the issue to OK!, stating: "Harry and Meghan's departure arguably impacted Edward and Sophie's lives more than anyone else's. They have consistently executed their royal duties, but as Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, they are now recognized as prominent and vital figures within the royal family."
Bond also noted that Edward and Sophie's children are older than William and Catherine's, meaning they don't feel the same compulsion to stay at home with their offspring. Consequently, they've assumed a pivotal role in the streamlined royal family.
Sophie, in particular, has gained prominence lately for advocating strenuously for several impactful causes. Recently, it was revealed that she made an unpublicized visit to Iraq to support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence. This trip, which was held confidential due to security reasons, was taken upon the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in favor of the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda (WPS), Buckingham Palace confirmed.
Despite the Foreign Office's advisory against traveling to most provinces in Iraq due to potential violent protests, Sophie managed to make meaningful connections during her stay. She met with young women at a girls' high school, discussing their educational pursuits and future aspirations, and visited a family planning center to learn about the ongoing initiatives to uphold the reproductive health of Iraqi women. She also interacted with female business leaders, underlining the significance of economic empowerment for women.
