The Sandringham Summit, held in January 2020, marked a pivotal moment in the British monarchy's history. During this crucial meeting, senior members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry, convened to discuss the future roles of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex following their decision to step back from their royal duties. Notably absent from this meeting was Meghan Markle, sparking curiosity and speculation. The reasons for her absence were multifaceted and likely tied to a combination of logistical, strategic, and diplomatic considerations.
At the time of the Sandringham Summit, Meghan was in Canada, having flown back shortly after the couple’s bombshell announcement of their plans to step back as senior royals. Meghan had returned to be with their son, Archie, who remained in the country after the couple's holiday. Given the personal nature of the summit, which focused on the royal family's internal affairs, the decision for Meghan to remain in Canada may have been made to ensure Archie’s safety and well-being during a time of heightened media scrutiny.
The physical distance between Meghan and the royal family during the Sandringham Summit was certainly a factor in her absence. Traveling back to the U.K. on short notice would have been challenging, especially given the security, media attention, and the potential disruption that her presence might have caused. It was a sensitive time, and both Harry and Meghan were already the subject of intense global attention. By staying in Canada, Meghan may have chosen to avoid further media frenzy, allowing Harry to engage with his family in a private and focused manner.
The royal family, particularly Queen Elizabeth II, may have preferred to keep the discussions limited to the most senior members, avoiding the complications that could arise from involving those not born into the family. The summit was, after all, a family meeting aimed at resolving internal matters related to Harry's role within the monarchy. Meghan’s presence might have complicated the discussions, as the monarchy sought to find a solution that addressed their public roles while preserving the institution's stability.
There was also a strategic dimension to Meghan’s absence. Her relationship with the royal family had already faced significant strain, with reports of tensions between her, Harry, and other family members, particularly Prince William and Kate Middleton. By staying out of the summit, Meghan could avoid any direct confrontation and allow Harry to navigate the complexities of royal life and family dynamics. It might have been seen as an effort to reduce tensions and facilitate a more productive conversation among the key royal figures.
Meghan Markle’s absence from the Sandringham Summit was not an oversight but a calculated decision. Her physical distance, logistical challenges, and the royal family’s desire to keep the discussions focused on the immediate family members likely contributed to her non-participation. This absence, while notable, ultimately allowed Prince Harry to negotiate on behalf of himself and his wife, paving the way for the couple's eventual transition into a new chapter of their lives.
