The Duchess of Sussex has described herself as 'the most trolled person in the entire world, man or woman' during a visit to Australia, sparking debate over the scale of online abuse she faces compared to others. Speaking at a mental health event, Meghan Markle said she had been 'bullied and attacked' daily for a decade. While acknowledging the racism and sexism behind much of the criticism, commentators have urged her to put her experiences in perspective.
The timing of her remarks has been questioned, given ongoing global crises such as the war in Gaza and energy shortages. Critics point out that UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who faces death threats and US sanctions for speaking about human rights in Palestine, may endure far greater hardship. Ted Cruz joked that Donald Trump attracts more trolls than Meghan.
Meghan and Prince Harry are currently touring Australia, where tabloids have scrutinised her outfits and activities. The couple have faced accusations of hypocrisy for retaining royal titles while criticising royal life. Despite sympathy for her online abuse, some argue that hyperbolic claims risk undermining legitimate concerns about misogyny and racism in media coverage.
