Prince Harry’s long-running concerns over personal security in the United Kingdom are once again under official review, marking a significant development in a dispute that has shaped his relationship with the UK government since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. The review, overseen by the Home Office, could influence whether the Duke of Sussex feels able to bring his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to the UK in the future.
The reassessment comes after years of legal challenges, court rulings, and public statements from Prince Harry emphasizing that security arrangements are central to his ability to travel safely with his family.
Background: Why Security Became a Central Issue
Following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step down as working members of the Royal Family in early 2020, their publicly funded, full-time police protection was withdrawn. Responsibility for security arrangements during visits to the UK was transferred to a case-by-case assessment process, overseen by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), which operates under the authority of the Home Office.
RAVEC is responsible for determining protective security for members of the Royal Family and other high-profile individuals, using risk-based assessments that consider threat levels, public role, and current circumstances.
Prince Harry has consistently argued that the change left him and his family exposed, particularly given his status, past military service, and the level of public attention surrounding him.
The Current Review Process
According to reporting by The Guardian, the Home Office is now conducting a fresh review of Prince Harry’s security arrangements. As part of this process, RAVEC has instructed its Risk Management Board to reassess the threat level relating to the Duke of Sussex. This is the first time such a reassessment has been formally initiated since the original decision in 2020.
The outcome of the review is expected to be reached this month. While the process does not guarantee any specific result, it will reexamine current risk factors rather than relying solely on assessments made several years ago.
As things currently stand, Prince Harry must give advance notice—reported to be around 30 days—before traveling to the UK. During that period, authorities evaluate what level of security support, if any, is required for each visit.
Legal Challenges and Court Rulings
Prince Harry has pursued legal action to challenge the decision to remove his automatic police protection. In 2023 and 2024, his case progressed through the UK court system, culminating in a ruling by the Court of Appeal.
In May, the Court of Appeal unanimously rejected Prince Harry’s appeal. The judges concluded that RAVEC had acted lawfully and had not treated the Duke unfairly when it decided to move him to a case-by-case security model rather than providing ongoing protection.
The ruling emphasized that security decisions must be based on current risk assessments and public interest considerations, rather than personal preference or previous status.
Despite losing the appeal, Prince Harry retained the right to request updated assessments when circumstances change, which is the mechanism now being used for the latest review.
Impact on Family Visits to the UK
Prince Harry has repeatedly stated that security concerns have prevented him from bringing Meghan Markle and their children to the UK. Since relocating to the United States, his visits have largely been solo and brief, often linked to legal proceedings or charitable commitments.
Any adjustment to security arrangements following the review could potentially make family visits more feasible. However, UK officials have not indicated that the review automatically implies an increase in protection. Decisions remain subject to established risk management frameworks.
Commentators familiar with royal affairs have noted that the security issue has become both a practical and symbolic barrier, affecting not only logistics but also personal relationships.
Relationship With King Charles III
While security decisions are made independently of the Royal Family, the issue has indirectly affected Prince Harry’s relationship with his father, King Charles III. Limited visits and short stays have reduced opportunities for private family interaction.
Observers have stressed, however, that the King does not control RAVEC or Home Office decisions. Security policy is determined by government bodies, not the monarch, and operates separately from family matters.
Ongoing Legal Matters Unrelated to Security
In addition to his security dispute, Prince Harry remains involved in other legal proceedings in the UK. He is among several high-profile figures pursuing claims against Associated Newspapers Limited, the publisher of the Daily Mail and The Mail on Sunday.
The group of claimants, which includes Sir Elton John and Baroness Lawrence, alleges unlawful information gathering practices dating back several decades. Associated Newspapers has denied the allegations, and the case is scheduled to proceed to trial in early 2026.
These proceedings are separate from the security review and are being handled through the civil courts.
The Broader Context of Royal Security Policy
Prince Harry’s case has drawn attention to how the UK manages security for former working royals and other public figures who no longer carry out official duties. Government officials have consistently maintained that protection decisions must be proportionate, evidence-based, and funded appropriately.
Security experts have noted that risk profiles can change over time, which is why reassessments are built into the system. The current review reflects that principle rather than signaling a shift in overall policy.
What Happens Next
Once the Risk Management Board completes its assessment, RAVEC will consider its findings and determine whether any changes to Prince Harry’s security arrangements are warranted. The Home Office will then communicate the outcome through official channels.
There is no obligation for the findings to be made public in detail, as security assessments typically involve sensitive information. Any future travel by Prince Harry to the UK will continue to be subject to coordination with UK authorities.
Conclusion
Prince Harry’s latest security review represents another chapter in a complex issue that has evolved since his departure from royal duties. While the process may clarify how current risks are viewed by UK authorities, it does not guarantee a different outcome from previous decisions.
For now, the review underscores the ongoing balance the UK government seeks to maintain between personal safety, public responsibility, and consistent application of security policy. As with past developments, any changes will be guided by formal assessments rather than public pressure or personal circumstances.