Duchess Sophie Is Taking on a Major Role From This Royal Family Member

The new position comes on the heels of Sophie being called the "royal family's secret weapon."

Duchess Sophie is stepping up to the plate as duties begin to shift within the royal family.

Sophie is now officially the royal patron of Plan International UK, the charity announced on November 25 in a statement. Prince Philip, her late father-in-law, was the last to hold the position.

"As a champion of women's rights, The Duchess has witnessed firsthand the impact conflict and crisis can have on young women and girls," Plan International UK wrote on X, "We look forward to working with The Duchess to raise awareness of the barriers facing girls around the world."

Plan International shared more details about Sophie's appointment in a press release, which also stated why she is the best royal candidate for the job. "A vocal champion of women's rights, The Duchess visited the Chad-Sudan border last month to witness firsthand the impact of the conflict and met with young women and girls supported by Plan International UK. More than 10 million people have been forced to flee their homes in Sudan, with women and children a high proportion of those arriving as refugees in Chad."

"The Duchess is committed to continuing her work in this area as part of her new role as Patron of Plan International UK," the press release continued. "Her Royal Highness will support the charity's work to end violence against women and girls in conflict and crisis settings and help to raise greater awareness about the barriers facing girls around the world."

Sophie's latest role comes amid being called the “royal family’s secret weapon,” royal commentator Afua Hagan told Us Weekly in April. “She really gets on with the job. She connects very well with people on these engagements, and she does a lot of them behind the scenes. Now, we’re seeing Prince Edward stepping out in his own way as well.”

Edward has also been feeling “really privileged” to go to royal events “on behalf” of King Charles II and Prince William. “Maybe he’s the other secret weapon in the royal family."

Don't be surprised if Sophie or Edward have additional duties added to their plates soon—despite murmurs of a previous royal snub. The couple is highly favored amongst the highest-ranking royals, with Kate Middleton even looking up to her as a sister.

Royal biographer Ingrid Seward told Hello! Sophie and the Princess of Wales "have a sisterly bond," and added that "Sophie is like the older sister Kate never had."