In the wake of recent riots across the UK, Prince Harry has warned that fake news shared online is directly leading to real-world actions.
Speaking at an online safety summit in Bogota, Colombia, the Duke of Sussex highlighted that the ongoing spread of false information through AI and social media has resulted in a breakdown of social cohesion.
He remarked, “What happens online within minutes translates to actions on the streets. People are reacting to false information.” He emphasized the need for individuals to distinguish between what is true and what is false.
Prince Harry also noted, “Ideally, those in positions of influence should take greater responsibility. We are no longer debating facts. As long as lies, abuse, and harassment are allowed to spread, our social cohesion will continue to deteriorate.”
His remarks followed a series of riots in the UK this month, triggered by the deaths of three girls in Southport. The unrest was fueled by misinformation online, including erroneous claims about the suspect being a Muslim migrant.
The Duchess of Sussex also participated in the Responsible Digital Future forum on their first day in Colombia.
She spoke about the widespread impact of cyberbullying, stating, “It doesn’t matter where you live or who you are; either you or someone you know has been a victim of online harassment. This is something we can actively work to address every day.”
She added, “We should model the behavior we want for our children and the world in which we raise them.”
Prince Harry mentioned, “With the Archewell Foundation, my wife and I believe that maintaining information integrity is a fundamental right.”
The forum featured notable guests, including Maria Ressa, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and representatives from organizations such as ReThink Words and Encode Justice.
The Duke and Duchess, who traveled from Los Angeles to Bogota, are also scheduled to visit San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas, and Cali, known for its salsa dancing.
Their four-day visit is hosted by Francia Marquez, Colombia’s vice-president, who is a prominent advocate for Afro-Colombian and women’s rights.
Marquez reached out to the Duchess last year, inviting her to support International Afro-descendant Women’s Day. Although the Duchess could not attend, she expressed a desire to visit Colombia.
Vice-president Marquez revealed that her decision to contact the couple was influenced by their Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan, which aired in December 2022 and focused on racism and the legacy of British colonialism.
Marquez said of the Duchess’s contribution, “It motivated me to say ‘this is a woman who deserves to visit our country and share her story,’ and undoubtedly, her visit will inspire many women around the world.”
