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Queen Camilla delivered a strong message in support of survivors of abuse during a reception at St. James's Palace in London on March 10, marking International Women's Day and the 15th anniversary of the Women of the World organization.
The 78 year old royal hosted the event as president of WOW, a global initiative that promotes equality and amplifies the voices of women and girls. The gathering included several notable guests, among them actress Miriam Margolyes. In her speech, Camilla addressed survivors of violence directly, offering words of solidarity and support.
She told attendees that many survivors have struggled to share their experiences or have not been believed. Camilla emphasized that they are not alone and that others stand beside them in solidarity and compassion. She also stressed the importance of telling women's stories, noting that silence often allows violence against women and girls to continue unchecked.
Camilla highlighted the work of the Women of the World organization over the past 15 years, saying its festivals and programs have created a platform for women's experiences to be shared around the globe. According to the Queen, these conversations have encouraged thousands of people across six continents to take action in addressing gender inequality and violence.
She also challenged the common belief that violence against women is primarily a problem women must solve themselves. Camilla described that idea as both unfair and incorrect, explaining that responsibility for preventing abuse should not rest on women alone.
The Queen has supported WOW since its founding in 2010 and has served as its president since 2015. Over the years, she has attended festivals and related events worldwide while continuing her advocacy for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
During her remarks, Camilla spoke about recently meeting French campaigner Gisèle Pelicot in London. She said Pelicot gave her a pin bearing the message "Shame Must Change Sides." Camilla praised Pelicot's courage and determination to shift global attitudes toward violence against women and girls.
The Queen also shared the story of John Hunt from Hertfordshire, whose wife and daughters were murdered by a former partner. She acknowledged the bravery of his surviving daughter Amy, who attended the reception with her fiancé.
Camilla warned that harmful attitudes toward women can grow through online spaces where young people absorb ideas about relationships and respect. Ignoring abusive behavior online, she said, can contribute to real world harm.
She concluded by urging both women and men to work together toward change through education, respect and kindness.
The reception came at a sensitive moment for the royal family. Protests took place outside the Commonwealth Day service on March 9 as renewed scrutiny surrounded Prince Andrew's past controversies and his recent arrest over allegations linked to his former role as a trade envoy. Andrew has denied wrongdoing.
