Princess Diana supported the global landmine ban in 1997. This was a move that has become a significant “turning point” for movements against anti-personnel devices.
Prince Charles and Princess Diana finalized their divorce in 1996. But, despite being no longer an official member of the British Royal Family, the Princess of Wales carried on with her advocacies across the globe.
Months after their divorce, she decided to go on a trip to Angola in support of the global landmine ban. The high-profile solo engagement in January 1997 became one of the most iconic tours she did before she passed away.
Following the historic move, unearthed reports claim that she planned to extend her reach in other “heavily mined” countries, according to the Daily Express. She appears to have prepared already for her next steps in her crusade.
Princess Diana wanted to visit other minefields across the globe
The publication said that the National Archives in London released documents showing Princess Diana’s next plans for her then-newfound advocacy. Roger Hart, U.K.’s ambassador in Luanda, Angola, also noted that the late royal was “pleased,” as well as the British Red Cross, who accompanied her on the tour.
He said that the four-day visit was “excellent” and effective. It was also the Princess’s first trip outside the country after agreeing to support the campaign. Upon seeing the success, Hart stated that she consequently planned to fly to countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, and Kuwait.
Several photos of the Princess of Wales went public and have since become “iconic.” Unfortunately, she was not able to go through with her plans as she passed away months later.
Princess of Wales’ efforts became a “turning point”
On the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death, Lou McGrath of the Mines Advisory Group paid tribute to the late royal. He said that having her on board with the global campaign provided a “turning point” for the movement, according to BBC.
He continued that the initiative in its entirety, following the Princess of Wales’ tour, led the British government to sign the treaty to ban the mines. It is unfortunate, though, that she was no longer around that time to witness the fruits of her efforts.
While Princess Diana may no longer be around, Prince Harry has seemingly continued and followed his mother’s footsteps. In 2019, he visited the former minefield in the African country and “retraced” the late royal’s steps. He said that he is “proud” of what his mother did. This comes after seeing the area as a “completely different place.”
Images courtesy of The Royal Family Channel/YouTube