Queen Camilla told survivors of sexual violence "you are not alone" during an International Women's Day reception at St. James's Palace in London, delivering a message of solidarity as the British royal family continues to confront scrutiny surrounding Prince Andrew and his past association with financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Speaking on March 10 at an event organized by the Women of the World Foundation, Camilla addressed survivors of abuse and highlighted the difficulties many face when coming forward. The reception, attended by public figures including actors Helen Mirren and Miriam Margolyes, broadcaster Sandi Toksvig and lawyer Cherie Blair, focused on the experiences of women who say their voices have historically been ignored.
"To every survivor of every kind of violence, many of whom have not been able to tell their stories or who have not been believed, please know that you are not alone," Queen Camilla said in remarks delivered to guests at St. James's Palace.
She added that society must show consistent support for those affected by abuse. "We stand with you and alongside you, today and every day, in solidarity, sorrow and sympathy."
Although the Queen did not mention Prince Andrew or Jeffrey Epstein directly, the speech came at a sensitive moment for the monarchy. Andrew's relationship with Epstein has remained a source of controversy since it first surfaced publicly in 2019, when Epstein was arrested on federal sex-trafficking charges in the United States.
One of Epstein's accusers, Virginia Giuffre, alleged she had been trafficked to Andrew when she was 17. Andrew has consistently denied the allegation. In 2022, the prince reached a settlement with Giuffre in a civil lawsuit filed in New York, resolving the case without admitting liability.
The royal family has taken steps to distance itself from Andrew as the controversy unfolded. Under Queen Elizabeth II, Andrew was stripped of his military titles and royal patronages. In 2025, King Charles III removed Andrew's remaining royal titles and formal roles within the monarchy.
The issue resurfaced earlier this year after British authorities launched an investigation into whether confidential government documents were shared with Epstein during Andrew's tenure as the United Kingdom's trade envoy. Police arrested Andrew in February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office before releasing him while the investigation continues.
Authorities have not filed charges, and Andrew maintains his innocence.
Camilla's speech focused primarily on the broader issue of violence against women and the societal consequences of ignoring harassment and misogyny. Addressing guests at the reception, she warned that failing to confront such issues would have long-term consequences.
"If misogyny and hatred are not confronted here and now," the Queen said, "we will face far greater issues in the future."
The Queen has long supported organizations that work with survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Over the past decade she has visited women's refuges, promoted rape crisis centers and spoken publicly about the need for more open discussions about abuse.
During her remarks at St. James's Palace, Camilla also referenced the emotional impact of hearing survivors share their experiences and emphasized that their voices deserve attention.
She said that "every woman has a story" that should be acknowledged and understood.
Camilla also praised French survivor Gisèle Pelicot, whose case involving years of abuse orchestrated by her former husband drew international attention. The Queen previously sent Pelicot a personal letter commending her courage in speaking publicly about the ordeal.
