WHO Director Commends Sussexes' Humanitarian Efforts in Jordan
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have concluded a significant two-day humanitarian mission to Jordan, with the World Health Organisation's director-general delivering a strong endorsement of their work. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hosted Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for a roundtable discussion alongside senior representatives from UN agencies including UNRWA and UNHCR, as well as diplomatic attendees from the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Canada, and the European Union.
Mixed Reactions to 'Quasi-Royal' Tour
While some royal observers have praised the couple's dedication to refugee initiatives, others have been more critical, describing their Middle Eastern visit as a 'pseudo-royal' or 'quasi-royal' tour. This criticism stems from the fact that the Sussexes stepped back from official royal duties in 2020 and relocated to the United States, making this a personal humanitarian endeavor rather than an official royal visit.
WHO Chief's Verdict on the Visit
In a detailed social media post featuring photographs from the Jordan trip, Dr Tedros expressed his gratitude for the couple's "generosity and compassion." He specifically thanked them for bringing "attention to the need for sustained action" in addressing critical health issues affecting vulnerable populations in the region.
The WHO director wrote: "I am grateful to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan, for their generosity and compassion shown this week in Jordan to recognise the efforts of the Kingdom, and many partners, to advance universal health coverage."
He continued: "Importantly, they brought attention to the need for sustained action to promote and protect the health of all people, from injured and ill children from Gaza receiving lifesaving care in Jordan, to delivering dignified mental health services to those in need, and providing health care services to Syrian refugees."
Dr Tedros concluded: "At a time of division and turbulence, I appreciate Prince Harry and Meghan's support to the World Health Organisation and others, as humanitarians and philanthropists committed to improving global health and wellbeing."
Detailed Itinerary of the Two-Day Visit
During their intensive two-day schedule, Harry and Meghan engaged with multiple humanitarian initiatives focused on supporting displaced populations in Jordan. The country has hosted successive waves of refugees, beginning with Palestinians over eighty years ago—now numbering approximately 2.5 million people—and more recently Syrians fleeing conflict in their homeland.
Day One Activities:
- Observed a music class at the QuestScope youth centre within the Za'atari refugee camp
- Participated in a football kickabout with Meghan joining the activity
- Visited the Specialty Hospital in Amman to consult with doctors treating medical evacuees
Day Two Engagements:
- Began with a visit to the World Central Kitchen facilities
- Made an emotional stop at the National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts
- Shared letters of support with patients undergoing treatment
Humanitarian Focus on Refugee Health
Throughout their visit, the Sussex couple concentrated on understanding the extensive humanitarian efforts supporting the health and wellbeing of Syrian and Palestinian refugees who have sought sanctuary in Jordan over many decades. Their engagements highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by displaced populations and the critical need for sustained international support.
Despite the controversy surrounding the nature of their visit, Harry and Meghan dedicated their time exclusively to charitable and philanthropic activities in the region, demonstrating their continued commitment to humanitarian causes outside their former royal roles.
