Prince George has become part of a fresh debate over the future of the monarchy. Former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is questioning whether the young royal should face a lifetime of duties determined by birth. Her new call goes beyond criticism of the institution itself. Sturgeon argues that ending the monarchy could actually benefit members of the British Royal Family.
Nicola Sturgeon argues ending the monarchy could ‘free’ Prince George from a life of predetermined royal duty
Speaking in the Channel 4 documentary The Royals: Time to Go?, Sturgeon said she has “huge sympathy” for members of the royal family.
“In fact, I would say one of the arguments for getting rid of the monarchy is for the sake of members of the royal family, like Prince George, for example,” she said, according to The Telegraph.
Sturgeon pointed to how little choice Prince George has over his future. She questioned whether it was fair for the 13-year-old to have a specific life mapped out for him from childhood. She then argued that abolishing the monarchy could “free” future generations from carrying that burden.
The comments arrive as Prince George takes another step toward adulthood. He recently started at Eton College, following the same educational path as his father, Prince William.
His royal future has also attracted increasing attention. Reports previously suggested Prince George is gradually learning about the responsibilities that could eventually come with becoming king.
Sturgeon’s position marks a notable shift from her years in office. While serving as Scotland’s first minister, she maintained a working relationship with Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III. She has since publicly expressed her personal support for a republic.
Not everyone featured in the documentary agrees with that call. Former Chancellor Sir Jeremy Hunt defended the monarchy, arguing that a politically neutral head of state can provide stability during polarized times.
For now, the institution remains firmly in place. However, by centering Prince George in the debate, Sturgeon has turned an old argument about the monarchy into a much more personal question about choice, duty and the future.
