The Colombian Presidential Palace buzzed with activity as news spread that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, had requested special security arrangements for their upcoming visit to Colombia.
The response from the Colombian president’s office was swift and unequivocal: a resounding rejection. The president's decision sent shockwaves through international media. For years, the British royal couple had enjoyed a certain level of privilege, with host nations often accommodating their requests. However, it appears that the era of Royals dictating terms is over—at least in Colombia.
This stance starkly contrasts with the historical deference shown to the British Royals, where host countries have traditionally gone to great lengths to ensure the comfort and safety of the Queen, Prince of Wales, and other members of the House of Windsor. Security cordons, traffic closures, and elaborate ceremonial welcomes have been customary.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro's defiant stance was clear. "We are not the UK and do not possess the same level of resources to allocate," he stated bluntly. "Our focus is on protecting our own citizens, not indulging the whims of foreign dignitaries." This decision quickly went viral, sparking a heated debate on social media. Supporters of President Petro lauded his principled position, arguing that the Royals needed to be treated like ordinary citizens. Critics, however, accused him of disrespecting the monarchy and potentially jeopardizing diplomatic relations. “This is an absolute outrage!” thundered one British tabloid. “How dare the Colombians refuse to accommodate Harry and Meghan? They are members of the royal family and deserve the utmost respect!”
The Colombian government remained steadfast. "We understand that the British royal family is accustomed to a certain level of privilege, but that does not apply here," stated Maria Fernanda Garzón, the President’s chief of staff. “Colombia will not be bullied or strong-armed, not even by a prince.”
Interestingly, this was not the first time the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had faced resistance during their travels. Earlier this year, their request for additional security during a visit to India was also denied by local authorities. Similarly, in Canada, the couple was reportedly displeased to learn they would need to cover their own private protection costs rather than relying on taxpayer-funded Royal Canadian Mounted Police escorts.
Royal commentator Penelope Hastings observed, “Harry and Meghan seem to believe that the world should cater to their demands. But the reality is they are just two people, no more special than anyone else. Countries like Colombia are increasingly unwilling to bend to their requests.”
The Colombian president's office emphasized that their decision was not a personal affront to the royal couple. “We have the utmost respect for the British monarchy,” President Petro reiterated. “However, we must prioritize our national interests. When it comes to security and resource allocation, our citizens come first.”
Representatives for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have remained tight-lipped about the situation, and there has been no official statement or response from Buckingham Palace. It seems the Royals have chosen to accept the Colombian government’s decision quietly, rather than risking a diplomatic incident. “I suspect Harry and Meghan are seething behind the scenes,” said Royal expert Simon Ashworth. “They are accustomed to having their way, and this must be a bitter pill to swallow. But they are smart enough to avoid a confrontation with an entire country, especially one known for its strong sense of sovereignty.”
As the dust settles, many are reflecting on what this incident signifies about the evolving nature of royal diplomacy in the 21st century. Gone are the days when royal visits automatically entailed a red-carpet treatment, with host nations eager to fulfill every royal wish. “The world is changing, and the Royals must adapt,” observed Colombian political analyst Juan Carlos Escobar. “They cannot simply expect to be treated with deference due to their titles; respect must be earned through genuine diplomacy and cultural exchange, not just by virtue of birth.”
For now, it remains to be seen whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will adjust their expectations accordingly. One thing is clear: the era of royal entitlement appears to be coming to an end, at least in the eyes of the Colombian government.
