Belgium’s future queen, Princess Elisabeth, is potentially facing expulsion from Harvard University following a controversial ban on foreign students implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump. The princess, who is currently pursuing a two-year master’s degree in public policy at the esteemed institution, is among those affected by the sweeping restrictions.
Impact of the U.S. ban on international students
On Thursday, the Trump administration revoked Harvard’s permission to enroll international students, citing claims that the university fosters violence and antisemitism. This decision came after Harvard allegedly failed to comply with a request to provide information regarding foreign students that could facilitate their deportation. The ban is projected to impact over 7,000 students, nearly a quarter of the university’s total enrollment. In response, Harvard has filed a lawsuit challenging the restrictions, emphasizing the “devastating effect for Harvard and more than 7,000 visa holders.”
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has mandated that foreign students, including Princess Elisabeth, must transfer to other institutions to maintain their visa statuses. The 23-year-old princess, the eldest daughter of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, has completed her first year of graduate studies and is not expected to graduate until next year. She previously earned her degree from Oxford University in the U.K. last year.
Royal family’s response and future implications
As the first in line to the Belgian throne, the potential implications of this ban on Princess Elisabeth are significant. Following the change in Belgium’s constitution in 1991, which allowed females to inherit the throne, her position has garnered much attention. A spokesperson for the Belgian monarchy commented on the situation, stating:
“The impact (if any) of this decision of the U.S. administration is unclear at this stage. We’re investigating it now. It will become clearer in the coming days/weeks.”
Additionally, the communications director of the royal palace mentioned that they are currently “analyzing” the circumstances and will allow time for the situation to unfold. The Trump administration’s actions represent an escalation in its ongoing campaign against Harvard and other higher education institutions, accusing them of harboring antisemitism and left-wing ideologies. This campaign has also included visa terminations and severe cuts to federal funding, amounting to billions of dollars.
This situation remains fluid, and updates will continue to emerge as the royal family and Princess Elisabeth navigate the implications of the U.S. administration’s decision.