Harry and Meghan's Influence in Colombia

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, though no longer working royals, received a warm welcome during their recent trip to Colombia, invited by Vice-President Francia Marquez. Marquez, the first black woman to hold the vice-presidency, had initially invited Meghan to an event celebrating Afro-Descendent Women, which she could not attend. This trip was seen as an opportunity to further their advocacy work while also highlighting Marquez's political profile ahead of upcoming elections. The couple's itinerary included various private events, with a notable appearance at a percussion school on the beach. Despite the heavy military presence and a swarm of journalists, many locals appeared indifferent to the couple's presence. The tightly controlled nature of the visit meant that only select media, including a single reporter from Harper’s Bazaar, were allowed to cover the events, raising questions about transparency and representation. Prince Harry and Meghan aimed to promote their initiatives focused on internet safety and support for parents of children harmed online. Their presence in Colombia was not just about advocacy; it also served to bolster Marquez's image in the media, generating buzz around her leadership as she prepares for the electoral campaign. While local media coverage was largely positive, some criticism emerged regarding the substantial security costs associated with the couple's visit, highlighting the complexities of their public engagements in a foreign context.