According to reports, when King Charles III grants the titles of prince and princess to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children in the future, they will not receive the HRH (His or Her Royal Highness) designation. This decision has sparked some controversy, with media outlets suggesting that the Sussexes are “furious” about the situation.
Harry and Meghan have previously voiced concerns about their children’s security. As former senior royals, they believed that Archie and Lilibet should receive the titles of prince and princess, which they felt would ensure a level of royal protection. They have been vocal in advocating for their children to be given the same recognition.
However, it’s important to recognize that there is a distinction between Harry and Meghan’s situation and that of other royals. For example, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, the daughters of Prince Andrew, retain their HRH titles because they remain active members of the royal family. In contrast, Harry and Meghan stepped away from their duties as working royals. As a result, while Archie and Lilibet may eventually hold the titles of prince and princess, they will not receive the HRH distinction.
This decision aligns with the rules set by King George V in 1917, which sought to limit the number of royals entitled to use the HRH title. Despite not having this designation, Archie and Lilibet will still be recognized as prince and princess under the royal title system.
This type of compromise is not unusual within the royal family. Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson, for instance, faced similar situations after separating from Prince Charles and Prince Andrew, respectively. While Diana lost her HRH status following her divorce, Sarah Ferguson continues to hold the title of Duchess of York today.
It’s understandable that Harry and Meghan may have hoped for more for their children, particularly given their desire for added protection and recognition. However, considering their departure from royal duties, it is reasonable that their children do not receive the HRH titles. This outcome reflects the balance between tradition and the Sussexes’ decision to step back from royal life.
In fact, this compromise may be seen as fair. There are some who believe that Harry and Meghan should voluntarily relinquish their royal titles altogether. Since their move to the United States, the couple has refrained from using the HRH titles, and they will likely be content with their children’s titles as “prince” and “princess” in America. Even if their descendants eventually enter the line of succession, they are unlikely to take on working royal roles, making the absence of HRH titles a logical outcome.
Ultimately, while Archie and Lilibet won’t carry the HRH rank, their status as prince and princess remains intact. This arrangement reflects both the changing nature of the royal family and the choices Harry and Meghan have made. It’s essential that all parties involved recognize the compromise for what it is—an effort to respect tradition while adapting to modern realities.
