Princess Eugenie Resigns from Anti-Slavery Charity Role
Princess Eugenie, the younger daughter of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson, has officially stepped down as patron of Anti-Slavery International, the world's oldest human rights organisation. This decision comes in the wake of her father's dramatic fall from grace, which recently included his arrest in February over alleged misconduct in public office.
End of a Seven-Year Patronage
The charity confirmed on Sunday that Eugenie's patronage, which lasted seven years, has "come to an end." Her profile has been removed from the organisation's website, where she was previously praised for her work "across the board with leaders in the fight against modern slavery." In a statement, Anti-Slavery International expressed gratitude for her support, stating, "We thank the Princess very much for her support for Anti-Slavery International. We hope that she continues to work to end slavery for good and deliver freedom for everyone."
Background of the Royal Scandal
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have caused significant turmoil for the monarchy. In response, the royal family has distanced itself by stripping him of his formal titles and removing him from Royal Lodge. Despite this, his daughters, Princess Eugenie and her older sister Princess Beatrice, have largely maintained a low profile amid the fallout.
Eugenie has spent years campaigning against modern slavery and human trafficking, even co-founding a separate charity called The Anti-Slavery Collective. However, she has not publicly commented on the Epstein files or the sexual abuse allegations against her father, who denies all wrongdoing.
Latest Developments in Andrew's Case
Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday and later released under investigation without charge. He has since returned to Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, a private residence owned by King Charles III. Police have clarified that the arrest relates to alleged misconduct in public office, not sexual offences, and Andrew has not been charged.
As the eighth in line to the throne, Andrew faces potential life imprisonment if charges proceed. King Charles has publicly supported the investigation, stating in an official release, "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor... the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter."
This resignation marks a significant moment in the ongoing royal saga, highlighting the broader impacts of Andrew's actions on his family's public roles and charitable engagements.
