Princess Delphine of Belgium has come to the defence of Prince Harry, condemning the public's relentless criticism of the Duke of Sussex and highlighting the toll it has taken on his mental health.
In a rare public statement, the Belgian royal expressed her dismay at the way Harry has been treated, stating that the constant scrutiny and bullying he faces only exacerbate his trauma.
'Compassion Over Criticism'
"The public often forgets that behind the headlines, there's a human being with real emotions and struggles," Princess Delphine remarked. "Prince Harry has been open about his mental health battles, yet many continue to dismiss or mock his pain."
Her comments come amid ongoing debates about the media's role in Harry's decision to step back from royal duties and move abroad with his wife, Meghan Markle.
A Royal's Perspective on Trauma
As someone who has faced her own share of public scrutiny, Princess Delphine emphasised the importance of empathy. "Trauma doesn't discriminate based on status or title," she said. "It's time we stop treating mental health as a taboo subject, especially when it involves public figures."
Her words have sparked conversations about the double standards in how royals are judged, with many praising her for speaking out.
The Broader Impact
Experts suggest that Princess Delphine's intervention could help shift the narrative around Prince Harry, encouraging a more compassionate discourse. "When a fellow royal speaks up, it carries weight," said one commentator. "This might be a turning point in how Harry's struggles are perceived."
Whether her plea will lead to lasting change remains to be seen, but for now, it serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of fame.