Duchess Sophie plans overseas trip without Prince Edward

The Duchess of Edinburgh is set to embark on a powerful and poignant solo visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina from July 10 to 12, marking a deeply significant moment in the region’s history.

Her three day trip will centre around the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide, one of Europe’s darkest chapters. 

On July 11, the Duchess will attend the official commemoration ceremony at the Srebrenica Memorial Centre, where she will deliver a heartfelt message on behalf of His Majesty The King.

It also marks her first ever visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Royal Family’s first appearance in the country since Princess Anne attended the 20th anniversary commemorations in 2015.

The Duchess of Edinburgh is preparing for a deeply meaningful and emotional solo visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she will honour victims, support survivors, and shine a light on the ongoing path to peace and reconciliation.

Her Royal Highness will lay a flower at the cemetery for genocide victims before meeting with mothers who lost husbands, sons, and fathers in the massacre that claimed thousands of lives.

Sophie's visit builds on past engagement most notably in March 2021, when she spoke with survivors via video link as part of the UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative, a cause she continues to champion.

The Duchess's itinerary will also take her to Sarajevo’s historic Old Town on July 10, where she will meet with a local female peacebuilder to hear firsthand how women have contributed to rebuilding lives in the aftermath of war.

Throughout her visit, she will engage with survivors of conflict related sexual violence and hold discussions with religious leaders who have played crucial roles in healing and promoting unity across communities.

While Prince Edward has wasted no time getting back to royal duties following his recent tour of Canada.

The King’s youngest brother was all smiles as he welcomed 600 Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award winners to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, celebrating the hard work and dedication of young people across the UK.