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Prince Harry addresses bereaved families in California court case
Prince Harry has voiced support for families pursuing legal action against Meta and YouTube, alleging the platforms contribute to youth mental health crises. The remarks came during a landmark trial in California examining claims that Instagram and YouTube are designed to be addictive.
Emotional tribute to grieving parents
The Duke of Sussex spoke to around 50 bereaved parents following the first day of court proceedings on Wednesday. In exclusive footage shared with BBC Breakfast, he acknowledged the emotional toll of confronting tech companies in court.
"We've said time and again that this is a David versus Goliath situation. [...] When you're sitting in court and you feel that overwhelming emotion because you can't believe what the other side is saying-that by defending what they're defending, they're devaluing life, devaluing your children's lives-if that brings stuff up for you, it is totally normal."
Prince Harry
Harry thanked the families for "telling your stories over and over again," expressing hope for "truth, justice and accountability."
Families seek accountability for alleged harm
Ellen Roome, whose 14-year-old son Jools Sweeney died after participating in an online challenge, traveled from the UK to attend the trial. She described the case as "the first of its kind" and said it could force tech giants to take responsibility for harmful content.
"We can't make a difference for our children, but we can for other people's children. The world is waking up to the dangers of harmful social media content."
Ellen Roome, bereaved mother
Roome criticized the companies for operating "a law unto their own," while the BBC has sought comment from both YouTube and Meta.
Tech giants defend safety measures
A Meta spokesperson told the BBC the company "strongly" disputes the allegations, citing "teen accounts" with parental controls and "built-in protections." YouTube also offers features to limit content for younger users.
The outcome of the California case may influence separate lawsuits filed by attorneys general from multiple U.S. states, which seek stricter regulations on Meta platforms.
Broader implications for social media regulation
The trial coincides with Prince Harry's ongoing campaign for stronger protections against social media dangers, launched last year. Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for holding platforms accountable for design choices linked to youth mental health.
