Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, spoke with young leaders from the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust about how online networks can “propel” trolling. The Duchess said people are “more fragile than ever” due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are president and vice president of the Commonwealth Trust.
During their discussion, the couple highlighted how internet communities can be used in a positive way.
They thanked the young leaders for using online platforms as a force for good.
The Duchess talked about the importance of having positive online experiences, especially during the pandemic which has swept the world.
She said: “Everyone’s mental and emotional wellbeing are perhaps more fragile than ever before, certainly with COVID and our dependability on devices right now in the absence of human interaction.
“People are going online more than ever before to feel community.”
After stepping down as senior royals earlier this year, the Sussexes have been living in America.
They reportedly moved into a £11.1million pad recently in Montecito, Santa Barbara.
READ MORE: Prince Harry reveals ‘things have changed’ from new US mansion
The Duchess said: “When you look at what these platforms are capable of with that reach, and what that propels in terms of trolling.
“You can either train people to be cruel, or you can train people to be kind.
“It really is that simple.”
Prince Harry also praised the young leaders during the virtual call.
He thanked YouTuber Vee Kativhu and mental health charity founder Hunter Kativhu for their positive work online.
The Duke said the young leaders are “standing for equality, for mutual respect, and for fairness”.
He added: “No one could have predicted how the world was going to change in such a short space of time, especially with the digital space.
“But, hearing you guys, knowing the broad spectrum that the QCT engulfs, you guys are the definition of the 21st century Commonwealth and what it means to be part of it.
“You are there standing for equality and mutual respect and fairness, and I think that is something that every single one of you should be very proud of.”
The Sussexes have taken part in several virtual calls with their charitable organisations since moving to the US in March.
