The Prince of Wales reportedly wants to bring a new approach when it comes to the monarchy and one of his plans includes scrapping traditional lengthy royal tours in favour of shorter “impactful” trips abroad, a royal source has claimed.
Prince William recently visited Estonia for two days in what was seen as a “deployment of soft power on the global stage” which went perfectly in line with his renewed vision for the monarchy’s future.
Last year, the future King visited South Africa for his Earthshot Prize awards, where he opened up about his vision, saying: “I can only describe what I’m trying to do, and that’s I’m trying to do it differently and I’m trying to do it for my generation. And to give you more an understanding around it, I’m doing it with maybe a smaller R in the royal, if you like, that’s maybe a better way of saying it.”
He added: “It’s more about impact philanthropy, collaboration, convening, and helping people. And I’m also going to throw empathy in there as well, because I really care about what I do.
“It helps impacts people’s lives. And I think we could do with some more empathetic leadership around the world.”
Now, according to a source, William’s recent trip to Estonia is something people should anticipate seeing more of.
They told The Sunday Times: “What you saw last week is a short, impactful trip that showcased an important issue. It’s a model you’re likely to see more of.”
The publication said the prince’s new approach to overseas tours was “very different” to that of his grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth, who embarked on many lengthy ones, including a six-month Commonwealth tour from November 1953 to May 1954.
But aides have now stressed that, while the Prince and Princess of Wales have not ruled out longer overseas tours in the future, they have prioritised not spending “extended time away” from their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
They said: “The idea of the short, sharp trip that has impact is one that works from a storytelling and impact perspective.
“He was in Estonia for under 36 hours, one minute he’s sat with the president, the next he’s taking selfies with Estonians then he’s taking part in a military exercise on the Russian borders.
“In terms of diplomacy and the role the family has to play, that is an example of what they can deliver.”
The source noted that the role of a “global statesman is really important” for the future King, who, when asked, said: “He’s always willing to do what’s needed to support the government and His Majesty.”
