Overview
- Speaking at St. James’s Palace, she told survivors of sexual and domestic violence "you are not alone" at a reception marking Women of the World’s 15th anniversary on International Women’s Day.
- She urged schools to teach what consent and assault mean, and warned that misogyny online shapes values boys and young men carry into adulthood.
- She wore a red "Shame Must Change Sides" badge gifted by French survivor Gisèle Pelicot, whom she met for tea at Clarence House last month.
- Coverage placed the address in the context of the Epstein scandal, with Prince Andrew arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office; he denies long‑standing abuse allegations and settled Virginia Giuffre’s civil suit in 2022 without admitting liability.
- A Buckingham Palace spokesman said "Her Majesty’s speech speaks for itself," with the palace expressing sympathy for victims; guests included Helen Mirren, Hannah Waddingham, Dame Harriet Walter and Miriam Margolyes.