New York, September 2024 — Prince Harry is set to visit New York City later this month for a series of solo engagements, including attending the Diana Award Event and participating in initiatives with African Parks, the HALO Trust, and Travalyst. The Duke of Sussex’s visit, scheduled during the UN General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week and Climate Week starting on September 22, will also coincide with his brother Prince William’s Earthshot Prize event, raising speculation among royal watchers about a possible reunion.
In light of the infamous paparazzi chase that occurred during Harry and Meghan Markle’s previous visit to New York in May 2023, the New York Police Department (NYPD) has confirmed that they will be ramping up security measures for the Duke’s upcoming trip. This decision comes after the NYPD publicly supported Harry and Meghan’s account of the relentless pursuit by paparazzi, which lasted over two hours and involved several near-collisions with other drivers, pedestrians, and NYPD officers.
The enhanced security measures, funded by state taxpayers, underscore the seriousness with which the NYPD is taking the safety of the Duke during his visit. This has sparked discussions among the public and media, given the high-profile nature of both Harry’s and William’s scheduled appearances in the city.
While Prince Harry will be in the Big Apple solo, Meghan Markle and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, will remain at their home in Montecito, California. The Duke’s spokesperson confirmed his participation in several key events, including the Diana Award Event, which honors the legacy of his late mother, Princess Diana.
Meanwhile, Prince William’s Earthshot Prize, a prestigious global environmental award, is set to take place at the Plaza Hotel on September 24. Although William attended the event last year, it remains unclear whether he will make the trip to New York this year. The overlapping schedules of the royal brothers have led to speculation about whether they might consider a reunion during their time in the city.
The enhanced security for Prince Harry’s visit reflects both the increased attention on the Duke’s activities and the NYPD’s commitment to ensuring his safety amid the bustling backdrop of one of the world’s most prominent cities.
