The Royal Family has undergone many changes in the past two years. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle dominated the headlines with “Megxit,” a bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey, and a bestselling memoir, Spare.
Moreover, there was a Spotify podcast, Archetypes, a Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, and other revealing sit-downs with the media.
The British royals also faced the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The ascension to the throne of King Charles III marked the beginning of a new era.
However, it was a smooth transition. Many observers believe that the King‘s relationship with his youngest son is his biggest challenge as Sovereign.
While the Duke of Sussex and his foray into the entertainment industry are a big problem, King Charles has other issues to tackle.
One of the most significant sources of worry for supporters of the British monarchy is the growing anti-royal sentiment around the globe. Republicanism is gaining ground in England.
Republic, a group pushing for a head of state, is trying to stage protests during royal visits around the country. The association announced on Twitter: “We’re off to Milton Keynes today to ask the King some questions. You can join the protest at the Church of Christ Cornerstone.”
Recently, a spokesperson for the association told the Daily Express: “Republic is concerned about recent police harassment of peaceful protesters at royal events. We’re determined to get the message across that it’s ok to protest against the royals. Instead of a pointless Coronation, we need a serious public debate. We believe the British public should be asked, do you want Charles or a choice? The tide is starting to turn against the monarchy, and we need a serious debate about its future.”
The sentiment is global, and it is unclear whether King Charles has a solid answer to the challenge.
Moreover, many former British colonies no longer want to have the Monarch as their head of state. The Caribbean nation of Barbados has led the way on the matter by becoming a republic in 2021.
Jamaica and other nations are hoping to follow the same path. Even Australia could be a problem for King Charles. Conversations about race and slavery have put the British monarchy on defense.
King Charles is trying to remind the doubters that the institution overall is still a force for good. The message does not really resonate when two rebellious royals are constantly highlighting its imperfections.
Prince Harry and Markle’s juicy revelations are a lesser threat to a monarchy that is dealing with the fact that times are changing.
