- By Supratik Das
- Sat, 24 May 2025 08:53 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, the 23-year-old heir to the throne, faces uncertainty over her studies at Harvard University following a controversial move by the Donald Trump administration to block the Ivy League school from enrolling international students. The move, which has been temporarily halted by a federal judge, has caused widespread alarm internationally and amongst students at large.
Princess Elisabeth, who is taking a two-year master's degree in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, has just finished her first year. The Royal Palace of Belgium announced the situation closely. "Princess Elisabeth just finished her first year. Its effect will only become clear in the days and weeks ahead," royal spokesperson Lore Vandoorne replied. Xavier Baert, the palace's communication director, also said, "We are considering this at the moment and will allow things to settle. A great deal can still happen." The princess had also gained a history and politics degree from the University of Oxford before joining Harvard.
Harvard Decries Ban As Retaliation, Court Offers Temporary Reprieve
On Thursday, the Trump administration revoked Harvard’s ability to admit international students, ordering foreign students to transfer or risk losing their legal visa status. Harvard responded by filing a lawsuit, calling the move illegal and unconstitutional. "This is a statement of retaliation and a threat to academic freedom," Harvard stated in a statement, noting that more than 7,000 foreign students may be impacted. A US judge on Friday stopped the policy from being implemented, providing temporary relief to foreign students already at Harvard.
Students In Shock: 'Unfair and Un-American'
Students from American universities have largely opposed the move. In a conversation with ANI, students at George Washington University spoke about their dismay and worry. "It's shocking and unfair. International students are an integral part of our academic community," one student replied. Another student said, "A large component of our college experience is influenced by students who are different from us. This action is a loss for all of us, not only for the students that are being pushed out, but for American education in general."
The Trump administration justified its action, blaming Harvard for promoting "anti-American" and "pro-terrorist" ideologies. "Admitting foreign students is a privilege, not a right," White House press secretary Abigail Jackson stated. "Harvard has consistently failed to take action against campus anti-Semitism and exclusionary diversity practices." President Trump, from the Oval Office, questioned Harvard's gargantuan endowment and asserted billions of taxpayers' dollars had gone to the school "with no accountability." "Harvard's going to have to change its ways," he declared.
