Belgian Princess Faces Uncertainty Over Harvard Future
Introduction to the Situation
The Belgian Royal Palace has announced that Princess Elisabeth, the first in line to the throne, is facing uncertainty over her ability to return to Harvard University for her second year. This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ban on foreign students at the university.
The Trump administration’s decision has revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, affecting thousands of students who must now transfer to other schools or leave the country.
Background on the Princess’s Education
Princess Elisabeth, aged 23, has completed her first year of a graduate school program at Harvard and would spend the summer back in Belgium. According to the palace’s communications head, Xavier Baert, “We are looking into the situation, to see what kind of impact this decision might have on the princess, or not. It’s too early to say right now.” The princess is the first of four children born to King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, and has been studying for a Master in Public Policy. Last year, she obtained a degree in history and politics at Lincoln College at Oxford in the U.K.
Impact on Harvard University
Harvard enrolls almost 6,800 foreign students at its campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, accounting for more than a quarter of its student body. Most are graduate students, coming from more than 100 countries. The university has filed a lawsuit on Friday in federal court in Boston, saying that the Trump administration’s action violates the First Amendment and will have an “immediate and devastating effect for Harvard and more than 7,000 visa holders.”
Reaction from the Royal Palace
The palace’s communications head, Xavier Baert, stated that they are waiting to find out whether the princess can return to Harvard for her second year. Baert said, “And we’ll have to see what happens next year.” The Royal Palace is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Princess Elisabeth’s future at Harvard University remains uncertain. The Trump administration’s ban on foreign students has significant implications for the university and its international students. The Royal Palace and Harvard University are taking steps to address the situation, but the outcome remains to be seen.
FAQs
Q: Who is affected by the Trump administration’s ban on foreign students?
A: The ban affects thousands of international students at Harvard University, including Princess Elisabeth of Belgium.
Q: What is the reason behind the Trump administration’s ban on foreign students?
A: The reason behind the ban is not explicitly stated, but it is part of the administration’s escalating battle with Harvard University.
Q: What is Harvard University doing to address the situation?
A: Harvard University has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Boston, saying that the Trump administration’s action violates the First Amendment and will have an “immediate and devastating effect for Harvard and more than 7,000 visa holders.”
Q: What is the potential impact on Princess Elisabeth’s education?
A: The potential impact on Princess Elisabeth’s education is uncertain, but she may need to transfer to another university or leave the country if the ban is upheld.
Q: When was the ban announced?
A: The ban was announced on May 23, 2025.
