The short version
- Prince Harry has resigned from the board of African Parks after the organization admitted its rangers committed human rights abuses against indigenous communities in the Republic of the Congo.
- Despite stepping down, a spokesperson confirmed the Duke remains a strong supporter of the charity's conservation mission and is proud of his ten years of service.
- The departure coincides with the Sussexes' planned return to the UK from California, raising questions about their future security arrangements and professional activities.
Prince Harry has formally stepped down from the board of African Parks, a major international wildlife conservation organization, marking the end of a ten-year association that began when he served as its president. The Duke’s departure follows an independent review which confirmed that rangers employed by the charity had committed serious human rights abuses against indigenous people in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of the Congo.
African Parks, which manages over twenty million hectares of protected land across thirteen African nations, acknowledged the findings of the investigation last year. The review was prompted by allegations from members of the Baka community, who accused park guards of beating, waterboarding, and raping locals to prevent them from accessing ancestral forests within the conservation area. In response to these findings, the organization stated it had implemented improved safeguarding processes both at the specific park level and institutionally.
A spokesperson for the Duke of Sussex confirmed that Harry is no longer a trustee but emphasized that he remains an active and avid supporter of the charity’s mission. The statement noted that the Duke is proud of his decade-long commitment to African Parks and fully supports the ongoing strengthening of its board. It further clarified that his dedication to conservation efforts in Africa continues, positioning his departure as a matter of governance rather than a withdrawal of support for the cause.
The timing of Harry’s resignation aligns with a broader governance refresh announced by African Parks. The organization expressed deep gratitude for the Duke’s contributions, highlighting his role in bringing global attention to biodiversity protection and promoting philanthropy for conservation in Africa. His involvement dates back to July 2016 in Malawi, where he supported one of the largest elephant translocations in history, moving animals from areas with heavy poaching to safer habitats.
Human rights advocates had previously called for Harry’s removal from the board. Survival International, a global charity campaigning for Indigenous rights, urged the Duke to step down following the revelations of abuse. While the charity maintains that Harry has contributed significantly to promoting conservation philanthropy, the independent review’s confirmation of torture and sexual violence by its staff created significant reputational pressure on the organization and its high-profile patrons.
The announcement comes as Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, prepare to relocate their family from California to the United Kingdom. The couple has announced an extended stay in the UK, with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, already enrolled in schools set to begin classes in September. This move places the family back in the public eye after years of living abroad and stepping back from official royal duties.
Questions regarding the Sussexes’ security arrangements have resurfaced with their return. Last year, Prince Harry lost a legal challenge concerning the level of state-funded protection he and his family are entitled to while in the UK. It remains unclear what specific provisions will be made for their safety once they settle back in Britain, as they retain their status as private individuals without official royal duties.
Beyond logistical concerns, the couple’s return has sparked speculation about their professional plans. Reports indicate that Meghan may be pursuing acting roles, including potential talks for a part in the third series of the Netflix hit The Gentlemen, though details on these negotiations remain fluid. As they navigate this transition, the focus remains on how they will balance private life with public engagement while adjusting to life back in their home country.
African Parks continues to manage its extensive portfolio of national parks and protected areas in partnership with African governments and local communities. The organization’s statement thanked Harry for his association, noting that he helped implement the first phase of the 500 Elephants project. As the charity moves forward with its board restructuring, it aims to address past failures while maintaining its core mission of protecting biodiversity for the benefit of both people and wildlife.
The Duke’s exit from the board does not signal an end to his interest in African conservation. His representatives stressed that he remains deeply committed to the cause and continues to support African Parks’ work. However, the separation allows the organization to distance itself from past controversies while Harry focuses on his family’s relocation and future endeavors in the UK.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian US↗Prince Harry quits board of wildlife charity after human rights abuses
- BBC News↗Prince Harry steps down from African wildlife charity board
