The “private citizens” title is apparently becoming a sticking point for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Sources claim the wording is tied to a much bigger issue: security. With the couple back in Britain, their argument over how their status affects their protection has seemingly gained new urgency.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pushing for ‘public figures’ title for security, per source
According to a report from Radar Online, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry want to be viewed as “public figures” rather than “private citizens.” Sources claim the distinction has a hidden connection to Harry’s long-running fight over security in Britain.
The couple reportedly returned to the UK with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in late August. Their arrival came after six years of living in California. Since then, their status has become a fresh point of friction.
The King’s Lord Chamberlain has referred to the Sussexes as “private citizens.” The letter also reiterated that they are no longer working members of the Royal Family. For Harry, however, an insider claimed that description does not tell the whole story.
“There is secretly a security dimension” to the distinction, a source said. According to the insider, Harry and Markle believe their visibility and royal connections make their circumstances very different from those of ordinary private citizens.
“Harry knows that calling himself a public figure doesn’t automatically entitle him to taxpayer-funded protection,” another insider said. Still, the source suggested that the label could strengthen the wider argument Harry has made for years.
That argument dates back to his decision to step away from royal duties in 2020. Since then, Harry has challenged decisions surrounding his security through the British courts. His position has reportedly been that leaving the working monarchy did not make the risks associated with his identity disappear. One source claimed that calling him a private citizen therefore “cuts directly across” the case he has made about their security needs.
Meanwhile, the Sussexes’ return has seemingly made the issue more personal. They are now spending more time in Britain rather than simply flying in from California for occasional appearances. As one source put it, the situation has shifted from protection during short visits into “something affecting his family’s everyday life.”
