The Duchess of Edinburgh made a private trip abroad to attend an event she is passionate about. Sophie was photographed this week with women peacebuilders at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, for this year's ICAN forum 'Security Reimagined'.
Meeting peacebuilders from conflict zones
The duchess, who attended without her husband Prince Edward, met women peacebuilders from countries including Afghanistan, Syria and Uganda. These women work to advance peace and security in their communities and countries.
As a champion for the UN's Women, Peace and Security agenda, Sophie wanted to attend the International Civil Society Action Network event, which aims to promote peace globally.
Forum highlights and royal reaction
The forum has seen over 65 women peacebuilders from around the world gather, along with policymakers and donors. Various discussions addressed some of the hardest challenges facing women in conflict situations today.
Attendees also took part in a 'wellness walk' around The Hague to reconnect, before a reception hosted by the British Embassy.
Palace shares photos online
The Palace shared pictures of Sophie at the event on social media. Royal fans expressed delight, with one writing on Instagram: 'A truly meaningful and inspiring engagement. It's wonderful to see the Duchess of Edinburgh shining a light on the courage and vital work of women peacebuilders around the world.'
Another commented: 'She unites nations through peace congresses and casts a spell with her own unique magic—only Sophie, the Duchess of Magic, can do that!' A third said: 'The Duchess's work in this field is amazing!! So nice to see HRH attending the ICAN forum.'
