Meghan Markle’s First Government-Backed Security Review Since 2020 Begins

A government-backed security review has commenced for Meghan Markle—the first since she and Prince Harry stepped back from royal duties in 2020. The assessment, commissioned by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), is distinct from her status as a non-working royal and focuses solely on current risk factors.

What the security review entails

The review evaluates Meghan Markle’s schedule, family routines, and public movements—including school runs involving her children Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five. Officials requested detailed daily itineraries to inform risk analysis. The process also includes interim security arrangements while assessments remain ongoing.

Prince Harry is receiving a separate official risk assessment under the same RAVEC mandate. He previously underwent a Risk Management Board analysis in July, though its conclusions have not yet been communicated to him. At the time of that earlier review, officials reportedly did not anticipate the family’s extended return to the UK.

Royal guidance issued amid the review

On September 7, King Charles issued updated royal guidance following the Sussexes’ return. The letter confirmed “no change” to their status as non-working royals. It directed inquiries regarding “recourse to public funds” to Buckingham Palace, while assigning “operational security issues” to relevant police authorities.

According to palace insiders, the guidance reaffirms terms agreed upon in 2020. Meghan Markle’s current security review operates independently of those arrangements and does not restore automatic protection tied to her former royal role.

RAVEC’s role and eligibility criteria

RAVEC determines eligibility for taxpayer-funded police protection. Its commissioning of both assessments follows the couple’s return to Britain. The committee’s involvement signals formal consideration of whether continued public funding for security is warranted under current circumstances.

As reported by People magazine, the review marks Meghan Markle’s first such government-backed evaluation since police protection ended after the 2020 royal exit. Prince Harry’s parallel assessment underscores the individualized nature of the process.

Harry has previously stated he did “not feel safe” bringing his children to the UK without official protection. That position preceded the initiation of the current reviews and remains a contextual factor in the timing and scope of the assessments.