Duke of Sussex highlights the dangers of false information and AI during a four-day trip to Bogotá, stressing the need for digital responsibility

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, recently voiced strong criticisms about the spread of misinformation in the digital age during his visit to Colombia. Arriving in Bogotá on August 15, 2024, Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex were greeted by Vice-President Francia Márquez, who had invited them after watching a Netflix documentary about their lives.

Their first day in the capital saw the couple visiting a local school, where they engaged with teenagers on the impact of social media. They also participated in a summit on digital responsibility organized in part by their Archewell Foundation. During these events, Prince Harry addressed the escalating issue of misinformation, particularly the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media in distorting facts.

Prince Harry emphasized that “we are no longer debating facts” due to the overwhelming spread of false information online. He expressed concern over how misinformation quickly translates into real-world consequences, with people acting on incorrect or misleading data. The Duke highlighted the fear and uncertainty surrounding AI’s potential impacts, stressing that education and awareness are crucial in combating these issues.

“We have to be able to distinguish between truth and falsehood,” Harry said. “It is vital for those in influential positions to take greater responsibility. As long as lies and harassment are allowed to proliferate, our social cohesion is at risk.”

The Sussexes’ visit, which includes a tour of Cartagena and Cali, is not officially a state visit or an official royal engagement, and the funding for the trip has not been disclosed. Despite stepping down as working royals in 2020, the couple has been provided with a full security detail during their stay in Colombia, a level of protection they no longer receive in the UK.

Vice-President Márquez praised the visit as “very special,” noting that it aims not only to address digital issues but also to foster bridges and support women’s leadership in Colombia. The warm reception included a heartfelt embrace between Meghan and Márquez and a firm handshake between Harry and the Vice-President.

The Sussexes’ Colombian trip follows their recent three-day visit to Nigeria in May, marking their second international tour of the year. This visit underscores their continued engagement in global issues, with a focus on promoting digital literacy and addressing the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital era.

Analysis:

Political:
Prince Harry’s remarks on misinformation and AI during his visit to Colombia underscore a broader political concern about the impact of digital technologies on democracy and public discourse. His comments highlight the need for policy responses to address misinformation and its influence on public opinion and social stability. The visit itself, while not officially sanctioned, reflects a growing trend of former royals engaging in global advocacy on pressing issues, potentially influencing public policy discussions and international relations.

Social:
Socially, Prince Harry’s focus on misinformation addresses a critical issue in today’s digital landscape. His efforts to raise awareness among teenagers and at a digital responsibility summit reflect a commitment to combating the negative effects of social media. The visit’s emphasis on education and digital literacy resonates with ongoing societal debates about the responsibilities of tech companies and the need for media literacy. It also highlights the role of public figures in addressing contemporary social challenges.

Racial:
The visit to Colombia and the discussions on misinformation touch upon broader racial and cultural contexts. The Sussexes’ engagement with issues of digital responsibility and misinformation reflects an awareness of how these problems can disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The conversation about AI and social media’s impact extends to global issues of racial equity and representation, as misinformation can exacerbate racial biases and inequalities.

Gender:
The focus on women’s leadership during the visit, particularly through Vice-President Márquez’s involvement, aligns with gender-related discussions about representation and empowerment. Meghan’s engagement with gender issues, coupled with the support for women’s leadership in Colombia, underscores the role of gender in shaping public discourse and advocacy efforts. This visit also highlights the intersection of gender and digital issues, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives in addressing misinformation.

Economic:
Economically, the concerns about misinformation and AI reflect broader implications for industries and markets. The spread of false information can undermine consumer trust and impact financial stability. Prince Harry’s advocacy for digital responsibility touches on economic aspects, including the potential costs of misinformation for businesses and economies. The visit also highlights the economic investment required for security and logistics, particularly for high-profile figures navigating international advocacy.