The Duke of Sussex has called on technology companies to make social media safe for children during a keynote speech to the European Parliament in Brussels.
Prince Harry delivered the address alone after Meghan Markle withdrew from speaking in public, with reports citing that she was "not feeling strong enough" to appear following her father's arrest.
Speaking as a father, not an expert
In his speech, Harry said children "deserve to feel safe wherever they are" and that he and the Duchess of Sussex were supporting parents who had lost children to online harm.
"I'm not here as an expert or a politician. I'm here as a father. My wife, as a mother," he said. "And together, as a couple who stand alongside parents like Sandra, Megan and Sewell – in New York, Los Angeles, Geneva and now Brussels."
He added: "Parents who never imagined they would have a reason to be in rooms like this."
Children deserve safety online
Harry continued: "All children should be able to go online and discover something wonderful. A friend. An interest that becomes a passion. A place where they feel understood."
"They deserve to feel safe wherever they are. In a classroom. On a playground. At any time, no matter where they are," he said.
When he finished speaking, Meghan was seen placing a hand on his arm.
