Meghan Markle addresses backlash over Geneva selfie
Meghan Markle has responded via a spokesperson after a selfie taken during her trip to Switzerland drew criticism online, following the release of an image showing the Duchess of Sussex with a Finnish politician at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva.
In a statement, Express reported that the Duchess had attended a dinner hosted by the World Health Organisation in Geneva, where more than 25 ministers and delegates were present ahead of the World Health Assembly.
The image was shared by Mr Wille Rydman, Finland’s minister of Social Affairs and Health, who posted the photo with the caption “A dinner with Meghan”. According to the spokesperson, the selfie was taken as the Duchess was leaving the venue, and she “politely obliges” photo requests at public engagements where time allows.
The spokesperson added that it is not possible to vet the background of every person who asks for a photograph, and said Meghan did not know Mr Rydman, had no prior awareness he would be there, and was unfamiliar with reports about him. The clarification comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Duchess’s public appearances, with previous Britpop News coverage noting how commentators have warned a UK return could bring a harsh public reaction.
The incident follows Meghan’s appearance in Geneva for an engagement focused on children’s online safety. The Palace has not commented on the photo, and the statement was framed as an effort to clarify the circumstances surrounding the interaction.
