The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, undertook a surprise humanitarian visit to Jordan this week, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). Their two-day trip, which was announced just a day in advance, aimed to shed light on the pressing issues of humanitarian aid and mental health support for communities in the region affected by ongoing conflict and displacement.
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On Wednesday, February 25th, the royal couple first visited the Za’atari Refugee Camp, which is noted as the largest refugee camp for displaced Syrians worldwide. This stop was followed by their engagement with medical evacuees from Gaza at the Specialty Hospital in Amman. Their visit highlights Jordan’s notable humanitarian initiatives, particularly in offering assistance to victims of multiple conflicts in the Middle East.
Partnering with the WHO underscores the couple’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes. Their nonprofit organisation, Archewell Philanthropies, has actively funded medical evacuations for children impacted by the Gaza conflict, as well as provided support for families affected by the tragic attacks that occurred on October 7 in Israel. Sources indicate that Harry and Meghan are deeply committed to family and child welfare, which is reflected in their philanthropic endeavours.
The couple’s visit to Jordan signifies a reunion with Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, with whom they previously collaborated in 2021. Together, they authored an open letter urging G20 leaders to enhance vaccine access in lower-income nations and co-hosted an event at the UN General Assembly to advocate for vaccine equity.
During the second day of their Jordanian visit, Harry and Meghan plan to join WHO delegates in hospital tours, focusing on centres treating medical evacuees and offering rehabilitation for addiction patients, as well as cancer treatment facilities. Additionally, they will meet female leaders at the Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development, showcasing their interest in empowering women and enhancing community resilience.
The Duke and Duchess will also revisit their ongoing partnership with World Central Kitchen, visiting its operations in Amman. Founded by Chef José Andrés, this organisation has been their initial philanthropic partner through Archewell Philanthropies, further solidifying their commitment to addressing food insecurity across the globe.
This trip marks Harry and Meghan’s first official international engagement since 2024. Their previous excursions included visits to Nigeria and Colombia, both occurring after stepping back from royal duties in the UK in 2020. Amid a backdrop of personal and familial challenges, the couple’s humanitarian work stands in stark contrast to the dilemmas currently enveloping the royal family.
The visit comes shortly after the arrest of Prince Harry’s uncle, the former Prince Andrew, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This arrest stems from ongoing inquiries related to Andrew’s historical relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The investigation revolves around allegations that he disclosed confidential information to Epstein during his tenure as a trade envoy for the UK in the early 2000s.
An insider recently addressed the perceived comparisons made between Andrew and Harry following the latter’s decision to distance himself from royal pursuits. The source claimed that Harry found such comparisons frustrating, asserting that his actions and public service have differed sharply from Andrew’s misfortunes. The insider explained, “Harry served his country, did the job well and never engaged in misconduct — yet lost security and housing, while Andrew was protected for years.”
The Duke’s recent reactions to Andrew’s arrest align with his longstanding principles of justice and accountability, further illustrated by his legal battles with UK tabloid media in recent years. Critics underscore the importance of distinguishing between their choices and actions while navigating the intense scrutiny that both members of the family face, albeit for vastly different reasons.