Prince Harry and Meghan Markle praise 'landmark' verdict against Meta and YouTube

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have spoken out after a major U.S. court ruling found tech giants Meta and YouTube liable in a social media addiction case, calling the decision a turning point for families and online accountability.

According to People, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex praised the Los Angeles jury’s verdict, which held the platforms responsible for negligence in a lawsuit brought by a young woman who claimed social media harmed her mental health during her formative years.

In a statement shared with the outlet, the couple described the outcome as a significant moment, saying, “This verdict is a reckoning.” They added that for years, families have “paid the price for platforms built with total disregard for the children they reach.”

The jury awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, with Meta responsible for 70% of the amount. Jurors also indicated that additional punitive damages could still be imposed.

Harry and Meghan emphasized that the ruling represents more than just a legal victory, calling it a broader shift in holding Big Tech accountable. “Today, the truth has been heard, and precedent has been set,” they said, adding that “justice has caught up to Big Tech".

The couple has long advocated for safer online spaces through their organisation, Archewell, particularly focusing on the impact of social media on children and teenagers. Their Parents’ Network initiative supports families affected by harmful online experiences.

They also referenced a similar recent decision in New Mexico, describing both rulings as “landmark victories” for young people, parents, and advocates pushing for stricter oversight of social media platforms.

Meta and YouTube, however, have pushed back against the verdict. Representatives for the companies stated they disagree with the findings, arguing that teen mental health is complex and cannot be attributed to a single platform.

The case is expected to continue as courts determine potential punitive damages, but the Sussexes made clear they see this moment as a major step toward accountability in the tech industry.