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The momentous statement from Buckingham Palace stripping Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his royal status is seen as an "recognition" that something occurred to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, relatives have expressed.

Through its announcement on Thursday, the royal establishment said that the Duke of York – as he is now known – will also vacate his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, as his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continue to cause controversy.

Their announcement concluded with: “Their majesties wish to make clear that their considerations and utmost sympathies are and will continue to be with the victims and survivors of every forms of mistreatment.”

Family Response: Recognition and Accountability

Questioned whether this suggested that King Charles trusts Virginia over Andrew, her brother Sky Roberts said: “Without a doubt, I think that he’s speaking distinctly in that announcement when he states he’s with those affected out there.

“It’s an acknowledgment that something occurred, something has happened. There has been a shift,” he noted.

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

“This represents the initial step for that resolution for those impacted. It is first the admission that something went on here. This involved real trauma that affected these young girls.”

In a book published after her death, Giuffre – who passed away earlier this year – repeated allegations that, in her youth, she had sex with the prince on multiple instances. He has always denied any misconduct. He settled a civil case with Giuffre for a estimated £12m with no admission of responsibility.

She characterized the announcement by the royal family as a “triumph” and “justification on behalf of our sister”.

“We are so exceptionally proud of her, but then the sorrow hits because you wish she could be present to share this moment alongside her – a time that she has been anticipating, for a considerable period,” she added.

Advocacy Groups Respond: Significant Message for Victims

Women’s rights advocates and support organizations likewise welcomed the decision by the monarchy, with several indicating it sent an important message to those affected of assault.

A representative, chief executive of Refuge, said it was “highly impactful to see victims acknowledged so directly in a statement from the palace”, noting that it delivered a message that “victims are important, that their ordeals are believed, and that they merit to be at the center of national discussions about abuse”.

Penny East, the chief executive at the Fawcett Society, commented “this is a positive acknowledgment that the real victims here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the females who were abused by entitled, misogynistic men.”

However, she added: “Removing a honor, or moving house can not be considered true accountability or sufficient punishment. In fact, a courageous individual, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. This was a devastating event, and a indication of the deep effect sexual assault has on female victims.”

Honoring Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"

Describing Giuffre’s character and fight for justice, Sky expressed she was a “strong warrior” who could additionally be cheeky and humorous.

“This is an ordinary girl from an ordinary family that did something remarkable and in my opinion this is something the world should be proud of.

“She was a tenacious fighter who refused to back down and spoke out courageously and we are at last receiving that acknowledgment that she truly was a world hero.”

Royal officials offered no response.