Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Colombian Tour: A Royal Misstep

The highly anticipated visit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Colombia has taken a controversial turn, marked by a glaring diplomatic snub from the country's leadership.

As the Sussexes embarked on their four-day tour, they were welcomed warmly by Vice President Francia Marquez.

However, President Gustavo Petro's decision to ignore the royal couple has cast a shadow over the entire event.

From the outset, the visit was steeped in the kind of fanfare that typically accompanies such high-profile guests.

Meghan made headlines by wearing Princess Diana's iconic earrings, a nod to her late mother-in-law that was meant to evoke fond memories of royalty.

Unfortunately, this gesture did little to sway public sentiment, as the couple's arrival quickly spiraled into a series of missteps.

On the second day of their visit, Meghan and Harry toured Colegio Legado in Santa Fe, where they engaged with local students in tree-planting activities and art sessions.

It should have been a heartwarming occasion, but it quickly turned sour due to a significant blunder.

The children had been led to believe they would meet soccer star James Rodriguez, only to be met by the Sussexes, whose celebrity status fell short of local expectations.

Public reaction in Colombia has been overwhelmingly negative.

Many citizens expressed sharp disapproval, particularly in light of President Petro's conspicuous absence during the visit.

His refusal to meet with the royal couple sends a clear message of disdain and highlights a deliberate diplomatic snub.

In a role that typically involves engaging with international figures, the president's choice not to welcome the Sussexes speaks volumes.

Frustration among the Colombian populace has been palpable.

Critics, as translated by Dan Unker, have unleashed a torrent of insults directed at Meghan and Harry, branding them as “good-for-nothing celebrities” and “freeloaders.”

One particularly pointed comment questioned Meghan's worthiness, bluntly asking, “What's her merit?

Marrying a prince?” This stark assessment reflects a widespread sentiment that views the visit as a waste of valuable resources.

The economic backdrop of Colombia further intensifies this discontent.

With nearly half the population living near or below the poverty line, the sight of Meghan's extravagant $72,000 wardrobe has sparked outrage.

The juxtaposition between the couple's opulence and the harsh realities faced by many Colombians has deepened resentment towards their visit.

Moreover, the exorbitant security costs associated with the Sussexes' tour have not gone unnoticed.

Their 15-car convoy and extensive security detail are funded by Colombian taxpayers, leading many to question why they should bear the financial burden of protecting private individuals who do not represent any official government or institution.

Critics argue that the visit lacks tangible benefits for the Colombian people.

Instead of addressing pressing social issues, Meghan and Harry's presence is perceived as a self-serving PR stunt rather than a genuine philanthropic endeavor.

The socioeconomic context amplifies this criticism, especially considering that about 11.4% of the population lives in extreme poverty, while the top 10% earn nearly 40% of the national income.

As the couple's Colombian tour unfolds, it becomes increasingly overshadowed by President Petro's diplomatic snub and the widespread public dissatisfaction.

Their attempts to project an image of philanthropy have backfired, exposing a profound disconnect from local realities.

Colombians are left grappling with the financial strain and symbolic insult of hosting such high-profile guests.

Rather than fostering goodwill, it appears that the royal visit has inadvertently caused more harm than good, leaving many questioning its true purpose and impact.