The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have commenced a significant two-day visit to Jordan, focusing on humanitarian initiatives and efforts to support vulnerable communities impacted by conflict and displacement. This trip marks a continuation of their international advocacy work since stepping back from royal duties.
Key Objectives of the Jordan Visit
During their stay, Harry and Meghan will engage with Jordanian leaders and senior health officials, while also collaborating with teams from the World Health Organisation (WHO). The couple's itinerary includes visits to frontline health and mental health programmes, as well as meetings with World Central Kitchen staff who are coordinating food relief efforts for Gaza from Amman.
Focus on Children and Youth Initiatives
A central component of the visit involves inspecting initiatives they have helped fund, specifically those aimed at medically evacuating children from the war in Gaza to Jordan. Additionally, the Sussexes will visit Questscope's youth centre to hear from young people participating in creative and wellbeing programmes, underscoring their commitment to youth development and social support.
Background and Invitation
The couple are travelling to Jordan at the invitation of Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the WHO. This partnership builds on their previous collaboration with the organisation, including a global campaign to encourage vaccine equity and a high-level event at the UN General Assembly in 2021. Their charitable body has also worked with the WHO on initiatives to help end violence against children.
Royal Context and Security Developments
This visit occurs against a backdrop of turmoil within the royal family, following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office. While Harry has not publicly commented on these developments, his memoir Spare referenced the allegations against his uncle in connection with Jeffrey Epstein, noting there was no suggestion Andrew lose his taxpayer-funded security.
In a related development, the Home Office has reportedly ordered a full threat assessment for Harry for the first time since 2020, amid indications that his taxpayer-funded armed protection may be reinstated for visits to the UK. This follows a Court of Appeal challenge last May where the duke lost a case over his security arrangements while in the country.
Post-Royal Life and International Engagements
Since relocating to California in 2020 for personal and financial freedom, the Sussexes have undertaken numerous foreign visits that mirror the official trips they conducted as part of 'The Firm', the colloquial term for the royal family. These engagements highlight their ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes and global advocacy, despite their changed status within the monarchy.
