The Duchess of Edinburgh has arrived in Brussels, in Belgium, for a two-day trip to take part in a series of engagements focused on tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Sophie is undertaking the international visit in her capacity as Patron of the NSPCC and Plan International UK.
The programme addresses the issue of child abuse both online and in communities.
This afternoon, the duchess attended an event co-hosted by the European Parliament Intergroup on Children’s Rights.
The Duchess of Edinburgh has arrived in Brussels, Belgium for a two-day trip to take part in a series of engagements focused on tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse
PA
She delivered a keynote speech highlighting the harm caused by child sexual exploitation and abuse before listening to a panel discussion on global responses to these crimes.
The duchess was joined by Jess Phillips, UK Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls.
Sophie later attended a reception with panellists, including survivors and representatives from EU institutions, the UN and NGOs advocating for change.
This is not the first time the duchess has engaged with the European Parliament Intergroup on Children’s Rights, having previously visited in December 2021.
Sophie is undertaking the international visit in her capacity as Patron of the NSPCC and Plan International UK
PA
On Thursday, the duchess will join a roundtable discussion with global child rights NGOs on protecting young people from sexual violence and abuse.
The group will discuss the evolving online threat and the importance of incorporating victim and survivor knowledge in tackling these crimes, addressing the shared responsibility across society to engage on the issue and find solutions.
The Duchess of Edinburgh has been Patron of the NSPCC since 2016, when the role was passed to her by Queen Elizabeth II.
The UK’s leading children’s charity, which is fighting to end child abuse in the UK and Channel Islands, supports children to rebuild their lives and protects those at risk, while also working with struggling parents.
Plan International UK particularly focuses on ensuring girls are free from violence, know their rights and have their voices heard
PA
More recently, Sophie became a Patron of Plan International UK in November 2024.
This global children’s charity works across more than 80 countries to ensure every child reaches their full potential.
Plan International UK particularly focuses on ensuring girls are free from violence, know their rights and have their voices heard.
The trip abroad comes less than a week after Prince William returned from his two-day visit to Estonia.