Duchess Sophie is taking on a "prominent role" during her three-day visit to Bangladesh, according to a body language expert who says she will be asked to represent the royal family more in the future.
The visit highlights the strength and breadth of the UK-Bangladesh partnership, with the Duchess undertaking engagements focusing on the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women and girls.
Growing Confidence and a Modern Royal Image
Speaking to Betfair Casino, body language expert Darren Stanton said: "I think Sophie will be asked to do more and will play a more prominent role in representing the royal family in the future."
He added: "As the decades have gone on, Duchess Sophie has grown in confidence. Prince Edward and Sophie are being drip fed even more to do royal engagements. A key thing is that the Royal Family would never have been photographed doing everyday things. They would always wear official regalia. Whereas now, a lot of the royals are dressed down, especially Sophie. She is prepared to be seen as a normal person."
Stanton noted images of Sophie playing hockey and planting a tree in Bangladesh, saying: "These images are to convey that the royals are able to connect with people and I think there is a push to introduce this into the fold. It’s saying, ‘I might be royal, but I am just like you.’"
Engagements in Bangladesh
Sophie's trip includes a visit to the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT) to learn about the country's role in UN peacekeeping and to highlight the importance of women's participation in peace and security.
She will also visit the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) to meet young athletes, including female hockey players, celebrating the role of sport in creating opportunities for women and girls.
Comparisons to Princess Anne
Stanton compared Sophie's confidence to Princess Anne, saying: "Anne is very forthright and says what she thinks, but doesn’t display signs of insecurity and is great with eye contact. Sophie is great at meeting people, with open palm gestures which shows honesty and authenticity. It is saying that she has nothing to hide."
He added: "With smiles and emotions, Sophie demonstrates a genuine happiness and seems to be enjoying attending various events. The cheek muscles, the crows feet and the mouth are components that need to be present to show genuine emotion. It’s also interesting the effects that the royal family has on people around them. Especially Sophie, people really love to have her attending events."
Stanton noted similarities to Princess Catherine and Prince William, saying there has been an elevation in Duchess Sophie's levels of confidence.
