Prince Harry, the former senior royal of the United Kingdom, has recently been engulfed in controversy following revelations about the organization he supports. Survival International has called on him to resign from his position on the board of African Parks, a wildlife conservation group operating across Africa.
The indigenous rights charity expressed concern over serious allegations against African Parks, prompting a plea for Prince Harry to step down. Although he was appointed as a board member in 2023, recent investigations have cast doubt on his association with the organization’s practices.
Prince Harry’s connection to African Parks began in 2016 when he transitioned from a volunteer to the President of the organization. His longstanding involvement underscores the level of his commitment to conservation efforts in Africa. However, the mounting allegations threaten to tarnish this image.
Recently, Harry attended a fundraising event in Scottsdale, Arizona, where African Parks aimed to raise an additional $1 billion (£743 million). His appearance at such events highlights his ongoing support and role in mobilizing resources for conservation.
In May 2025, an independent investigation conducted by law firm Omnia Strategy uncovered disturbing human rights abuses committed by eco-guards employed by African Parks. These revelations have attracted widespread criticism from human rights organizations and the public alike.
Among the most egregious allegations are reports of rape and beatings inflicted on the indigenous Baka people within Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of the Congo. Such claims have sparked outrage and calls for urgent action to address these abuses.
Critics have condemned African Parks for choosing to keep the full investigation report confidential. Many argue that transparency is essential to ensure accountability and restore faith in conservation initiatives that involve indigenous communities.
Despite managing protected areas across 13 countries—including Central, Southern, East, and West Africa—African Parks faces accusations of mismanagement. In Chad, the government temporarily suspended the organization due to allegations of fraud and unexplained wildlife deaths, though operations were later reinstated under pressure from international donors.
Survival International recently told The Times that “the problems on the ground have not been solved,” emphasizing ongoing issues within the organization. Their stance reflects deep concern over the efficacy and ethics of African Parks’ operations.
Caroline Pearce, the director of Survival International, criticized Prince Harry’s continued support, labeling it “outrageous” given the reports of abuses against the Baka people. She argued that his association with the organization undermines efforts to protect indigenous rights and human dignity.
In response, African Parks spokespersons defended the organization’s efforts to improve human rights safeguards. They highlighted investments in grievance mechanisms, independent reporting channels, and oversight by eminent judges and human rights experts to address past issues.
While the organization promised to take action against staff implicated in unaddressed incidents, there has been no indication that Prince Harry himself was involved or aware of any misconduct. His supporters emphasize that his role remains dedicated to environmental conservation.
Nevertheless, critics argue that the controversy raises broader questions about the accountability of celebrity-backed organizations working in delicate regions. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and rigorous oversight in charitable endeavors.
The current situation places Prince Harry at a crossroads, challenging his commitment to advocacy and the causes he supports. As investigations continue, public opinion remains divided over his association with organizations linked to serious misconduct.
Ultimately, this scandal highlights the complex intersection of celebrity influence, indigenous rights, and conservation efforts. The coming months will be pivotal in determining the future of Harry’s role in both charitable and environmental fields.
