Prince Harry's Bid for U.K. Security Denied Again in Court

In a recent ruling, the Court of Appeal once again dismissed Prince Harry's claims regarding the withdrawal of automatic police protection that was standard for royals prior to his departure from official duties in 2020.

Prince Harry's legal saga over his security in the U.K. has taken another hit, as the Court of Appeal ruled against his appeal aimed at reinstating automatic police protection. The Duke of Sussex has been contesting the government's decision since stepping down from royal duties and relocating, which led to the revocation of his security. In court, his legal team claimed that the change had subjected him and his family to heightened risks due to inadequate protection.

Harry's pursuit of legal remedy started in late 2021, following the government's choice to eliminate his public security detail, traditionally afforded to members of the royal family. The Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures, or Ravec, made the contentious decision, citing concerns over allowing private funding for protection services, which they believed could hinder the availability of trained officers.

Despite a previous loss in February 2023 regarding funding, Harry appealed again, focusing solely on whether Ravec breached its own procedures. Notably, Harry has traveled back to the U.K. multiple times, including to attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral and King Charles III's coronation, but each visit has necessitated separate protection arrangements, often leading to the deployment of private security.

As this chapter of his legal battles continues, Harry is also embroiled in another case involving the Daily Mail, which alleges the unlawful acquisition of private information about him and several high-profile figures. A hearing for that separate matter is set for next week, suggesting that Prince Harry's pursuit of justice remains a significant focus in both his personal and public life.