Duke and Duchess of Sussex Embark on Four-Day Tour of Colombia, Focusing on Digital Wellbeing and Women's Empowerment
ICARO Media Group
In an effort to promote digital wellbeing and women's leadership, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have commenced their four-day visit to Colombia. The royal couple, Prince Harry and Meghan, began their tour by meeting the vice-president of the country, Francia Márquez, at her official residence. Márquez, who was inspired to extend the invitation after watching a Netflix series about the Sussexes' lives, described their visit as a "very special visit" aimed at building bridges and combatting cyber-bullying, online digital violence, and discrimination.
During their warm reception, Meghan was pictured embracing Márquez, while the vice-president firmly clasped Harry's hands upon their introduction. Notably, this trip is not funded by the royal family, and the source of financing remains undisclosed. However, the couple is receiving full security detail, a privilege no longer afforded to them in the UK after stepping down as working royals in 2020.
The Sussexes' itinerary includes visits to various locations in Colombia, starting with a school in Bogota. Here, they interacted with students and discussed the importance of education and empowering young minds. Additionally, the royal couple participated in a summit focused on creating a healthier digital landscape, where they shared their insights on combating the negative impact of social media and promoting online safety.
While the details of their activities in Cartagena and Cali are yet to be revealed, it is expected that the couple will continue their engagement in discussions surrounding digital well-being, women's empowerment, and forging alliances against online abuse. This visit marks the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's second tour this year, following their three-day visit to Nigeria in May.
Although not an official royal event or state visit, the Sussexes' tour exhibits many similarities to the engagements typically undertaken by members of the royal family. With their focus on addressing pertinent global issues and lending their support to causes close to their hearts, Prince Harry and Meghan continue to make their mark on the world stage.
As the tour progresses, it is expected that these high-profile discussions and engagements will contribute to facilitating positive change, fostering stronger relationships, and raising awareness about the pressing issues of cyber-bullying, digital violence, and gender equality – all in pursuit of a better future for all.