Amid the ongoing Epstein scandal, the Prince of Wales faced scrutiny during his visit to Saudi Arabia, where he deftly avoided a reporter’s question about his controversial uncle. Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender, had connections with various royal families worldwide, as revealed by released files. Notably, a framed photograph of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, was found in Epstein’s New York mansion.
During this trip, Prince William found himself in a delicate position, navigating diplomatic waters while evading inquiries about Prince Andrew. His three-day visit to Saudi Arabia was without his wife, Kate Middleton, who stayed back in the UK with their children. This decision possibly considered the sensitivities surrounding past controversies, such as the Riyadh Comedy Festival’s entertainment-washing accusations.
Prince Charles engaged in a PR moment by meeting young female footballers in Riyadh, showcasing advancements in women’s rights under MBS’s reforms. Despite improvements, Saudi Arabia still ranks low on the Global Gender Gap Index. The country’s gender laws, including the concept of guardianship and LGBTQ+ rights, continue to face international criticism.
While MBS projects a modern image through various events and initiatives, concerns over human rights persist. The Prince’s visit to Saudi Arabia is seen as part of a broader strategy of royal-washing, aimed at portraying a progressive image internationally. The role of British diplomats in this narrative raises questions about balancing diplomacy with human rights advocacy.
The absence of Princess Katherine from the visit raises questions about the optics of showcasing a global icon in a potentially controversial setting. Meanwhile, the excuse of tending to the royal children’s education adds another layer of intrigue to the royal visit’s dynamics.
Ros Wynne-Jones, known for her Real Britain column in the Daily Mirror, voices concerns about government policies and advocates for ordinary citizens’ rights.
