Princess Elisabeth, the 23-year-old heir to the Belgian throne, has successfully completed her first year at Harvard University. However, a ban introduced by US President Donald Trump’s administration on foreign students could threaten her ability to continue her studies in America.
The Trump administration revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students on Thursday, and is forcing current foreign students to transfer to other schools or lose their legal status in the US, while also threatening to expand the crackdown to other colleges.
Analysis, Investigation Ongoing
“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. We are currently investigating the situation,” the Belgian Royal Palace’s spokesperson Lore Vandoorne said.
“We are analyzing this at the moment and will let things settle. A lot can still happen in the coming days and weeks,” the Palace’s communication director, Xavier Baert, added.
Public Policy Student
Elisabeth is studying Public Policy at Harvard, a two-year master’s degree program that according to the university’s website broadens students’ perspectives and sharpens their skills for “successful career in public service”.
The princess is heir to the Belgian throne, as the eldest of four children born to King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. Before attending Harvard, she earned a degree in history and politics from the UK’s Oxford University.
Harvard said on Thursday the move by the Trump administration – which affects thousands of students – was illegal and amounted to retaliation.
Harvard Strikes Back
Meanwhile, Harvard University sued the Trump administration on Friday over its decision. In a complaint filed in Boston federal court, Harvard called the revocation a “blatant violation” of the US Constitution and other federal laws, and had an “immediate and devastating effect” on the university and more than 7,000 visa holders.
“With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body, international students who contribute significantly to the University and its mission,” Harvard said.
“Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard,” the 389-year-old school added.
Harvard asked a federal judge to block the revocation, citing “the immediate and irreparable harm inflicted by this lawless action.” The case was assigned to US District Judge Allison Burroughs.
(With inputs from Reuters)
