In recent developments, Meghan Markle has raised concerns about her children, Archie and Lilibet, receiving their rightful royal titles. After stepping down from senior royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have been vocal about their desire for their children to be treated fairly within the royal institution. Meghan emphasized that despite their distance from royal life, her family has worked to uphold the image of the Royal Family internationally, notably in North America, and believes her children deserve official recognition for their heritage.
Meghan’s argument stems from a belief that Archie and Lilibet, as grandchildren of King Charles III, are entitled to royal titles under the 1917 Letters Patent. This law stipulates that children of the sovereign’s sons should receive the titles of prince and princess. However, there has been considerable debate within the Royal Family regarding the allocation of these titles, especially since Harry and Meghan have taken a step back from their official duties.
The question of royal titles became particularly significant following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in 2022. With King Charles III ascending the throne, the children now stand closer in line to the succession, further igniting discussions about whether they should automatically receive the titles of prince and princess. Initially, Archie and Lilibet were referred to as “Master” and “Miss,” titles reflecting their parents’ reduced status within the royal hierarchy. Still, Meghan has argued that her children have contributed to bringing the Royal Family’s influence to new territories and should be honored with their rightful titles.
Security is another key issue tied to the royal titles. Meghan and Harry have consistently expressed concerns for their children’s safety, particularly during their visits to the UK. Royal titles would grant them HRH (His or Her Royal Highness) status, which comes with taxpayer-funded security. Without these titles, the Sussex family has faced challenges in securing adequate protection for their children, prompting Harry to take legal action against the British government to obtain personal security at his own expense.
While King Charles III has not publicly commented on this matter, experts suggest that he is considering the implications of conferring these titles on his grandchildren. Many observers speculate that the monarch is balancing tradition with the evolving nature of the monarchy, particularly as Harry and Meghan’s roles remain unconventional compared to other senior royals like Prince William and Kate Middleton. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s choice to seek a life independent of royal duties, while still maintaining their royal lineage, complicates the decision.
Public opinion on this issue remains divided. Some people support Meghan’s demand for titles, seeing it as a matter of fairness and security for the family. Others argue that Harry and Meghan, having voluntarily stepped back from royal duties and established lucrative independent careers, should not expect royal titles or privileges for their children. These critics often cite that taxpayer funds should not be allocated to provide security for non-working royals.
Ultimately, the decision rests with King Charles III, and it remains unclear how this situation will unfold. As Meghan and Harry continue their journey outside of traditional royal roles, their children’s potential royal titles remain a symbol of the evolving dynamics within the British monarchy. This ongoing debate highlights the tension between maintaining royal traditions and adapting to modern circumstances.
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Source: The Wall Street Journal
