Meghan Markle’s Concerns for Son’s Safety Lead to Decision on Schooling

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has recently disclosed her apprehensions about her son Archie attending school in the UK due to safety concerns.

In an interview with journalist Alison P. Davies for New York magazine The Cut, Meghan expressed her fear of compromising both her and Archie's safety if he were to attend school in the UK.

She firmly believes that her decision showcases her strength and ability as a parent.

Currently, Archie is enrolled in a preschool in Montecito, California.

During the conversation, Meghan highlighted her aspirations for the life she is building in California.

She emphasized that if Archie were in school in the UK, she would never be able to experience the simple act of dropping him off or picking him up without attracting significant media attention.

This would result in a royal photo call, with around 40 photographers capturing every moment.

Meghan candidly stated her objection to this situation, asserting that it does not signify an obsession with privacy but rather her determination to protect her child and fulfill her parental responsibilities.

However, some critics argue that security concerns are merely an excuse for Meghan's decision.

They point out that she hastily relocated a child who is not biologically hers from England to the US, raising questions about the child's identity as he grows older and attends school.

Furthermore, Meghan is now confronted with the challenge that neither public nor private schools in California are accepting Archie due to issues with his birth certificate and medical records.

Meghan is aware that American children require birth certificates for various purposes, such as school enrollment, obtaining a driver's license, applying for a passport, or gaining admission to college.

However, she claims that she cannot apply for a copy of Archie's birth certificate because the palace has sealed his records.

In England and Wales, the General Register Office maintains public records of all births, deaths, and marriages since 1837.

Anyone can request a copy of a birth certificate as long as they possess the name and date of birth.

Birth certificates come in two forms: the short form, which provides basic information, and the long form, which includes detailed parental information.

While the exact birth date of Archie has been kept secretive, providing incorrect information to the register is considered a criminal offense, akin to perjury.

Therefore, Meghan removed her name from Archie's birth certificate to ensure her safety and avoid potential legal consequences.

In the UK, if a child is born through surrogacy, the surrogate is legally recognized as the mother because she gives birth to the child.

The parents must then go through the process of adoption.

If the surrogate is married or in a civil partnership, her spouse or civil partner automatically becomes the child's second parent.

However, their consent is necessary for this arrangement.

Meghan Markle's decision regarding Archie's schooling reflects her concerns for their safety and privacy.