Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, the nation’s future queen, finds her academic future at Harvard University uncertain due to the Trump administration’s recent showdown with the university over foreign students. Having completed the first year of her two-year master’s program in public policy, the 23-year-old royal is among over 7,000 international students affected by the revocation of Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students.
The administration’s decision, citing concerns over national security and alleged non-compliance with oversight requirements, has led to widespread confusion and concern among international students. The Belgian Royal Palace acknowledged the situation’s uncertainty, stating, “Princess Elisabeth has just completed her first year. The impact of [the Trump administration’s] decision will only become clearer in the coming days/weeks.”
Harvard University has challenged the administration’s move, filing a lawsuit arguing that the ban violates the First Amendment and would have an “immediate and devastating effect” on the institution and its international students. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the ban, providing a 30-day window for Harvard to respond to the allegations and justify its eligibility to enroll foreign students.
The situation has prompted many international students to consider transferring to other institutions or returning to their home countries. As the legal battle continues, the Belgian Royal Palace remains cautious, with communication director Xavier Baert stating, “We are analyzing this at the moment and will let things settle. A lot can still happen in the coming days and weeks.”
