The Duchess of Edinburgh used a major appearance in Lisbon to speak about the dangers faced by women working for peace in conflict zones. During the second day of a three-day visit to Portugal with the Duke of Edinburgh, Sophie addressed students at a Model NATO conference and spoke plainly about sexual violence in war and post-conflict societies. According to Hello!, she described the issue as ongoing and deeply rooted, while urging younger generations to understand the role women play in rebuilding communities under extreme pressure.
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Sophie Addresses Sexual Violence in Conflict
Speaking to students studying international relations and related subjects, the duchess said the issue continues long after fighting ends. "Sexual violence in conflict is really a scourge on the world," said Sophie according to Hello!. She added that violence against women and girls can continue to shape societies even in post-conflict settings. Her speech reflected years of work supporting the Women, Peace and Security agenda, a United Nations initiative focused on placing women at the center of peace processes and conflict resolution efforts across the world.
Lisbon Students Hear a Stark Account
Sophie also shared a disturbing example from a conference in New York, where women from the Democratic Republic of Congo were trying to advocate for peace while facing threats on their phones. "They were there in the name of peace .. but they were receiving direct threats straight onto their phone," she said. She stressed that women peacebuilders bring vital local knowledge and understand what matters most inside their communities. At the same time, she noted that stepping forward can expose them to rape threats, intimidation, deportation and incarceration.
Duchess Sophie Explains How She Uses Her Voice
During a question-and-answer session, one student asked how women’s voices can be amplified in global forums. Sophie answered with a direct explanation of her own role. "I use my voice.. . I can be their voice in various different forums, in various different settings," she said. She also encouraged students to do the same in their own lives and careers. The exchange added a personal note to a speech that otherwise focused on policy, conflict and the risks carried by women who choose to advocate for peace.
Prince Edward and Sophie Continue Portugal Visit
The occasion also included lighter moments in Lisbon as Prince Edward and Sophie visited aerospace company Tekeva, where they helped assemble a drone and operated its camera using an Xbox console. The company produces drones for surveillance, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue work in the Channel and Ukraine. Later, the couple attended a garden party at the British ambassador’s residence and met members of the British expat community involved in charity work. Their trip marks 640 years of ties between Britain and Portugal, dating back to the Treaty of Windsor.
