At the European Parliament in Brussels, the Duke of Sussex gave a keynote speech entirely on his own, declaring that children “deserve to feel safe wherever they are.”
The event marked the launch of the Lost Screen Memorial—a mobile art display honoring youth who lost their lives following online harm—while Meghan Markle stayed away, having decided against speaking alongside him because she was not “strong enough emotionally”.
That engagement represented Meghan’s initial public appearance since claims regarding Thomas Markle Sr emerged in the previous month and since his Friday court appearance in the US on a charge of possessing child sexual abuse material. Addressing the parliament, Prince Harry mentioned that both he and his wife stood in support of parents who had suffered the loss of children due to online dangers.
During his address at the European Parliament, Prince Harry focused on online safety, prevention, and technology. Although his speech did not directly reference Mr. Markle Sr., he emphasized the importance of safeguarding youth.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will visit Brussels, Belgium, on Tuesday, November 10, for the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial at the European Parliament. Prince Harry and Meghan will deliver a joint keynote address on children’s digital safety. pic.twitter.com/eg6U6Td0BB
I’m not here as an expert or a politician. I’m here as a father. My wife, as a mother,
he said.
He added: Why, when we ask whether it can keep a child safe, does everything suddenly become complicated? I am not asking for a world without technology. That isn’t possible, it isn’t what young people want, and it certainly isn’t what I want for my own children.
The Duke of Sussex stressed that children should be able to explore the internet safely to find friends, interests, and places where they feel understood. He underscored the need to prioritize proactive measures.
All children should be able to go online and discover something wonderful. A friend. An interest that becomes a passion. A place where they feel understood,
Prince Harry stated, noting that they deserve safety in a classroom, on a playground, and at any time, no matter where they are.
He concluded with his perspective on safety measures: My approach to life, and to the value of it, has perhaps unsurprisingly always been about prevention. Preventing harm before it happens, rather than waiting for tragedy before deciding something must change.
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