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The momentous declaration from the royal household stripping Prince Andrew of his royal status is regarded as an "recognition" that events occurred to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, relatives have expressed.

Through its announcement on Thursday, the palace indicated that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor – under his current designation – will also vacate his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, since his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continue to cause controversy.

Their announcement ended with: “The King and Queen wish to make clear that their considerations and deepest empathy are and will continue to be with the affected individuals and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”

Family Response: Acknowledgment and Accountability

Asked whether this suggested that King Charles believes Virginia rather than Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Without a doubt, I think that he’s speaking very clearly in that statement when he states he’s with survivors out there.

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

Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, said: “Issuing such recognition out for survivors is significant. It's unprecedented that from anyone, and to acknowledge that there are affected individuals in this case is an affirmation that abuse took place.

“This represents the initial step for that justice for survivors. Primarily the admission that something went on here. There was genuine suffering that happened to these young girls.”

Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who died recently – repeated allegations that, as a teenager, she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions. The Duke has always denied any misconduct. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m with no admission of responsibility.

She described the statement by the royal family as a “triumph” and “vindication for our sister”.

“We are so exceptionally admiring of her, but then the sadness strikes because you wish she was here to experience this moment alongside her – a moment that she has been waiting for, for a very long time,” she added.

Advocacy Groups React: Significant Message for Survivors

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

Gemma Sherrington, head of Refuge, said it was “incredibly powerful to see survivors recognised so explicitly 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 public discussions about mistreatment”.

Another advocate, the director at the Fawcett Society, said “this is a positive recognition that the true sufferers here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the women and girls who were abused by privileged, misogynistic men.”

However, she added: “Removing a title, or relocating can not be considered true accountability or adequate consequence. Indeed, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. This was a devastating event, and a reminder of the profound impact abuse has on women and girls.”

Honoring Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"

Portraying Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky said she was a “determined advocate” who could also be playful and goofy.

“This is an regular individual from an ordinary family that achieved something remarkable and I think that is something the global community should be admiring of.

“She was this strong warrior who stood her ground and spoke out courageously and now we are finally receiving that acknowledgment that she truly was a global icon.”

Royal officials offered no response.