Meghan Markle’s Herculean Struggle: Why She Can’t Use Her Royal Title

As of now, Meghan Markle is no longer a royal, nor can she use her royal title in both the UK and the US. This seminar discusses why she faced such challenges and the complexities of maintaining one's identity after leaving the royal family.

Why Meghan Can’t Use Her Title

One of the most pressing questions surrounding Meghan Markle is why she can no longer use her title after leaving the royal family. When Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, announced they were stepping down from their royal duties, they made a significant decision that affected their titling and public identity. The reason primarily lies in the legal and protocolary norms surrounding royal titles.

Meghan's title, which is her married name – the Duchess of Sussex – fully belongs to her husband, Prince Harry. As a result, any efforts by Meghan to claim her own title for personal or professional use are considered inappropriate and a misrepresentation of her status.

Choosing a Public Name

It's important to note that people choose the names they wish to be known by, along with the associated honorifics and titles. For instance, Dr. Jill Biden and Ms. Sally Fields both chose their titles and names after their subsequent marriages, much like Meghan. When the Sussexes decided to no longer align closely with the royal family, they also agreed to drop their royal titles in their commercial ventures, such as the Sussex Royal trademark.

Prince Charles's son, Prince William, and his brother, Prince Harry, have taken similar steps, maintaining their royal titles only for official purposes. Their income, particularly from the Duchy of Cornwall, is indicative of the flexibility in titling and its usage within the royal family.

The Commercial and Political Implications

The complications arise when Meghan and Prince Harry try to use their royal titles commercially or politically. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have faced a major setback after exclusive polls conducted by the Sunday Express revealed that they should not use their royal titles in business and political contexts.

The surveys also reflect a significant drop in Meghan's popularity in both the UK and the US, which adds to the complexity of their situation. These findings highlight the public's changing perception of the Sussexes, particularly in light of their recent actions and the backlash they have faced.

Despite these challenges, Meghan can still refer to her title as part of her married identity. She can say that she is the Duchess of Sussex without using her royal title for commercial or political gain. This distinction is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the royal family and avoiding any misunderstandings or misrepresentations.

Ultimately, the issue at hand is a question of balance between personal identity and adherence to royal protocol. As Meghan and Prince Harry navigate these complex waters, it is essential to clarify the use of their titles and respect the boundaries set by the royal family.

Conclusion

Meghan Markle's inability to use her royal title after leaving the royal family is a multifaceted issue. It involves understanding the legal and protocolary norms around royal titles, the flexibility in titling within the royal family, and the evolving public perception of the Sussexes.

By maintaining a clear distinction between their personal and royal identities, Meghan and Prince Harry can navigate their new roles with integrity and respect for the royal family's protocols.