Meghan Markle’s Controversial Photoshoot: Exploiting Afghan Refugee Women

Meghan Markle has come under fire for allegedly pressuring 15 Afghan refugee women to sign non-disclosure agreements during a photoshoot that portrayed her in a disrespectful light in the kitchen.

The Duchess of Sussex initiated charity work by collaborating with the Archwall Foundation to establish the Welcome Project in 2023, alongside her husband, Prince Harry.

The initiative aims to provide a safe haven and inclusive space for women who have recently resettled in the United States from Afghanistan, as stated in a press release from the Archwall Foundation.

Over the weekend, Markle participated in an event organized by the Southern California Welcome Project, where she engaged with the 15 women in cooking traditional Afghan dishes and sharing stories.

The foundation's partner, Mina Zlis, brought together the women to prepare authentic Afghan cuisine such as ashak and mantu, varieties of dumplings, with the assistance of Harry's wife.

Despite her intentions to support the women, some critics argue that Markle should have allowed the focus to remain on the women themselves rather than overshadowing them.

Following the cooking session, the group of women gathered to discuss their personal experiences and the solidarity they found within their intergenerational community.

Mina Zlis, a key figure in the foundation, has been actively advocating for women's rights and gender equality in Afghanistan since 2014.

Markle's claim of initiating the Welcome Project in 2023 has been met with skepticism, with some pointing out that the project is part of a larger nationwide effort to welcome refugees across various locations, suggesting she may be appropriating existing work.

Criticism mounted against Markle for her choice of attire during the photoshoot, where she was seen wearing a sleeveless outfit while surrounded by traditionally dressed Afghan women.

The contrast raised concerns about cultural sensitivity and appropriateness, especially in a kitchen setting where sleeveless attire is typically discouraged.

Additionally, reports surfaced that Markle was excluded from attending the Superbowl and instead orchestrated the photoshoot with the refugee women, allegedly compensating them to sign NDAs.

An insider revealed that Markle's actions were perceived as insincere, portraying herself as a compassionate figure only when cameras were present, while reverting to a less favorable demeanor behind the scenes.

Critics accused her of using the refugee women as props to bolster her humanitarian image, questioning her genuine intentions and contributions to the group.

The repetitive nature of Markle's public engagements with marginalized communities, inspired by her previous involvement with the Hub Community Kitchen in the UK, has raised suspicions about her motives and authenticity.

Furthermore, Markle and Prince Harry's focus on Afghanistan as a charitable cause has drawn scrutiny due to the country's troubled history and their association with controversial figures.

Previous instances, such as the couple's decision to send a representative to an event honoring Afghan refugees in New York, which later exposed allegations of misconduct within the organization, have fueled skepticism about their philanthropic endeavors.

The couple's tendency to align themselves with pre-existing initiatives without significantly expanding or supporting these organizations has also been questioned, suggesting a pattern of superficial engagement.