A look back at Meghan Markle, Prince Harry’s bold stand against AI

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are taking their advocacy to a new level, this time warning against the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently joined global leaders, tech pioneers, and public figures in signing a statement that calls for a halt to AI “superintelligence” until it can be developed safely.

Here are some of the key insights:

1. United call to pause AI ‘Superintelligence’

The couple, alongside figures like Steve Wozniak and Richard Branson, signed a statement urging tech giants such as Google, OpenAI, and Meta to halt the development of AI systems that could surpass human intelligence.

“We call for a prohibition on the development of superintelligence, not lifted before there is broad scientific consensus that it will be done safely and controllably,” the statement reads.

2. Harry’s powerful message about humanity’s future

Prince Harry added a heartfelt note underscoring the importance of wisdom over speed in AI innovation.

“The future of AI should serve humanity, not replace it,” he wrote, adding, “The true test of progress will be not how fast we move, but how wisely we steer. There is no second chance.”

3. Archewell Foundation’s fight for online safety

This move follows the couple’s partnership between their Archewell Foundation’s Parents’ Network and ParentsTogether, a nonprofit advocating for family digital safety.

“This connection ensures our community has the infrastructure, advocacy power, and resources needed to protect our children,” said Archewell’s co-executive directors, James Holt and Shauna Nep.

4. Continuing the talk on mental health

The next day, Harry and Meghan addressed the digital age’s mental toll at Project Healthy Minds’ World Mental Health Day Festival in New York.

“Our digital world has fundamentally changed how we experience reality,” Harry shared, adding, "Maintaining good mental health isn’t just an individual challenge; it is a community responsibility."

5. Shared royal focus on tech and family

Prince William and Princess Kate are also addressing the impact of technology on youth. In her essay The Power of Human Connection in a Distracted World, Kate warned of an “epidemic of disconnection.” 

William added in an interview, “None of our children have any phones — we’re very strict about it. We sit and chat. It’s really important.”