Palace Statement on Prince Andrew Viewed as 'Justification' for Giuffre, Says Her Family
The momentous declaration from Buckingham Palace removing Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his title is regarded as an "acknowledgment" that something happened to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, relatives have stated.
Through its statement on Thursday, the royal establishment indicated that the Duke of York – under his current designation – will additionally vacate his residence in Windsor, Royal Lodge, since his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating controversy.
The statement concluded with: “The King and Queen aim to emphasize that their considerations and deepest empathy are and will continue to be with the affected individuals and those who endured of any and all forms of abuse.”
Relatives Reaction: Recognition and Justice
Questioned whether this implied that King Charles believes Virginia over Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Absolutely, in my view that his words convey very clearly in that announcement when he states he’s with those affected out there.
“This is an admission that something occurred, incidents transpired. We are witnessing a change,” he added.
Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, said: “To put that acknowledgment out for victims is huge. We haven’t seen that from anyone, and recognizing that there are survivors in this situation is an acknowledgment that abuse did occur.
“This represents the initial step for that resolution for survivors. Primarily the admission that something went on here. This involved genuine suffering that happened to these young girls.”
In a posthumous memoir, Giuffre – who passed away earlier this year – repeated allegations that, in her youth, she had intimate relations with Mountbatten Windsor on multiple instances. He has always denied any wrongdoing. He settled a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m with no admission of responsibility.
She described the announcement by the royal family as a “triumph” and “vindication for our sister”.
“We are extremely proud of her, but then the sorrow strikes because you wish she could be present to experience this moment alongside her – a time that she has been waiting for, for a considerable period,” she continued.
Advocacy Groups Respond: Powerful Statement for Survivors
Women’s rights advocates and advocacy groups likewise welcomed the move by the monarchy, with several indicating it sent an important message to those affected of assault.
Gemma Sherrington, head of Refuge, said it was “incredibly powerful to see survivors recognised so explicitly in a statement from the palace”, noting that it delivered a signal that “survivors matter, that their ordeals are believed, and that they deserve to be at the center of national discussions about mistreatment”.
Penny East, the director at the Fawcett Society, said “it is a welcome recognition that the true sufferers here are not embarrassed politicians or fallen royals, but the women and girls who were abused by entitled, prejudiced men.”
Nonetheless, she added: “Removing a title, or relocating can never be viewed as genuine responsibility or sufficient punishment. Indeed, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. It was a devastating event, and a reminder of the deep effect abuse has on female victims.”
Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"
Describing Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky expressed she was a “strong warrior” who could also be playful and goofy.
“Here we have an ordinary girl from an ordinary family that achieved something remarkable and I think this is something the global community should be proud of.
“She was a tenacious fighter who refused to back down and refused to stay silent and now we are at last getting that acknowledgment that she indeed represented a global icon.”
Royal officials offered no response.