Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently embarked on their second “royal” tour of the year, landing in Bogota, Colombia. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were warmly welcomed in the South American country, but their visit has drawn criticism from several royal experts, who accuse the couple of hypocrisy. This criticism stems from their previous visit to Nigeria and their current trip to Colombia, both of which have sparked debate over their motivations and the implications of their actions.
Observations on Body Language and Leadership Dynamics
During their time in Colombia, a body language expert observed that Prince Harry appeared uncomfortable, even suggesting that he might be imitating his brother, Prince William, through his posture. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle seemed to take on a leadership role, at one point giving Harry a directive while they greeted well-wishers, as revealed by a lip-reading expert. This dynamic has further fueled discussions about the couple’s roles and interactions during their public engagements.
Criticism Over the Timing and Purpose of the Visit
The Sussexes’ visit to Colombia, following their controversial trip to Nigeria earlier this year, has not been without its detractors. While their visit was arranged after an invitation from Colombia’s Vice President Francia Márquez, who was moved by their Netflix series, some royal experts have questioned the couple’s true intentions. Critics argue that their presence in Colombia, a non-Commonwealth country, raises concerns about their motivations, especially considering the scrutiny they have faced for their public appearances.
The Sussexes’ Campaign Against Cyberbullying
Despite the criticism, Prince Harry and Meghan’s visit to Colombia focused on important issues such as cyberbullying and digital responsibility. They spent their first day in Bogota visiting a school, where they discussed the impact of social media on young people. The couple has been actively campaigning to make the internet safer, particularly for children, through initiatives like the Parents’ Network, which they launched to support parents dealing with social media-related harm.
Prince Harry spoke passionately about the dangers of social media, emphasizing the rapid spread of misinformation and its real-world consequences. He highlighted the need for individuals to distinguish between truth and falsehoods online, calling for greater responsibility from those in positions of influence. The couple also met with Colombia’s vice president, exchanged gifts, and participated in discussions about human rights and environmental issues, areas where Márquez has previously focused her efforts.
Body Language Expert’s Analysis of Harry’s Discomfort
In analyzing a photo taken during their visit, body language expert Judi James noted Prince Harry’s discomfort, describing his posture as a “fig leaf” pose, reminiscent of his brother Prince William. This stance, which suggests shyness or a desire to avoid asserting royal status, contrasts with Meghan’s confident demeanor. James also observed that while Meghan maintained a composed and elegant appearance, Harry’s expressions fluctuated, occasionally showing signs of awkwardness or anxiety.
Lip Reading Expert’s Insight into Meghan’s Directive
In addition to the body language analysis, a lip-reading expert, Nicola Hickling, revealed a moment where Meghan gave Harry a clear command. As they emerged from a building to greet fans, Meghan reportedly instructed Harry to “hand,” to which he responded, “Here you go.” This exchange has been interpreted as an example of Meghan’s assertiveness and her role in guiding their interactions during public engagements.
Royal Experts Question the Sussexes’ Security Concerns
The Sussexes’ visit to Colombia has also reignited debates about their security concerns. Royal experts have pointed out the apparent contradiction in Harry and Meghan’s actions, as they have previously cited security issues as the reason for not feeling safe in the UK. The presence of a “massive” security convoy during their Colombia visit, described by journalist Nick Pisa, has raised questions about why they feel secure in a country with significant safety concerns but not in the UK.
Ongoing Criticism of the Sussexes’ Public Appearances
The criticism surrounding the Sussexes’ Colombia visit extends to broader concerns about their public appearances and the potential impact on the countries they visit. Some royal commentators have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of their trips, suggesting that they may be more of a distraction than a genuine effort to contribute to meaningful causes. The perceived inconsistency in their approach to security and their choice of destinations has led to accusations of hypocrisy.
Harry and Meghan’s Complex Relationship with the Public
As the Sussexes continue their public engagements, they face ongoing scrutiny and criticism from both the media and the public. While their efforts to address important issues like cyberbullying are commendable, their actions and choices often spark controversy. The complexity of their relationship with the public and the royal family is reflected in the mixed reactions to their Colombia visit, with some viewing them as dedicated advocates and others questioning their motives.
