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This historic declaration from Buckingham Palace stripping Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his royal status is regarded as an "recognition" that something occurred to the late Virginia Giuffre, her family have stated.

Through its announcement on Thursday, the palace indicated that the Duke of York – as he is now known – will additionally vacate his residence in Windsor, Royal Lodge, as his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating controversy.

Their announcement ended with: “Their majesties aim to emphasize that their thoughts and utmost empathy are and will continue to be with the victims and those who endured of every forms of abuse.”

Relatives Reaction: Recognition and Accountability

Questioned whether the statement suggested that the monarch believes Virginia over Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Without a doubt, in my view that his words convey very clearly in that statement when he says he’s with survivors out there.

“It’s an acknowledgment that something occurred, incidents transpired. We are witnessing a change,” he noted.

A family member, Amanda Roberts, commented: “To put that acknowledgment out for survivors is huge. It's unprecedented that from other parties, and to acknowledge that there are survivors in this case is an affirmation that abuse took place.

“This represents the initial step for that resolution for survivors. Primarily the acknowledgment that events unfolded here. There was genuine suffering that happened to these young girls.”

Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who passed away earlier this year – reiterated claims that, as a teenager, she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions. The Duke has consistently refuted any misconduct. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m with no admission of liability.

Amanda characterized the statement by the palace as a “victory” and “vindication for our sister”.

“We are so exceptionally admiring of her, but then the sadness hits because you wish she could be present to share this moment together with her – a moment that she has been anticipating, for a very long time,” she continued.

Advocacy Groups React: Significant Message for Victims

Gender equality campaigners and support organizations likewise welcomed the move by the monarchy, with some indicating it conveyed an important signal to those affected of abuse.

Gemma Sherrington, chief executive of Refuge, said it was “incredibly powerful to see survivors acknowledged so explicitly in a announcement from the royal household”, noting that it sent a message that “survivors matter, that their experiences are believed, and that they merit to be at the heart of public discussions about abuse”.

Another advocate, the director at the Fawcett Society, commented “this is a positive recognition that the true sufferers here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the females who were sexually assaulted by privileged, prejudiced men.”

However, she added: “Removing a honor, or relocating can never be considered true accountability or sufficient punishment. In fact, a courageous individual, Virginia Giuffre, has lost her life. It was a devastating event, and a indication of the profound impact sexual assault has on female victims.”

Honoring Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"

Portraying Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky expressed she was a “determined advocate” who could additionally be cheeky and humorous.

“This is an regular individual from an ordinary family that achieved something remarkable and in my opinion this is something the world ought to be proud of.

“She was a tenacious fighter who stood her ground and refused to stay silent and we are finally receiving that recognition that she truly was a global icon.”

Royal officials offered no response.