(This article is a case study for the upcoming publication of the 4-Layer Framework (4LF) that is designed to analyze complext narratives. With the framework, you’ll have the tools to dissect any story—from policies to personal beliefs. Stay tuned for the full method!)
The British monarchy is a family brand, but a very special one with multimillion pound brand value. It’s also colonial relic, and a global soft power tool. But: the way the monarchy is discussed depends entirely on where one is standing and who’s telling the story.
In the UK, the debate is dominated by cost vs. benefits and nostalgia vs. progress. In the Commonwealth, it’s about colonialism, reparations, and self-determination. Globally, the monarchy is framed as celebrity, diplomacy, or irrelevance. And then there are the erased narratives—the voices of Indigenous peoples, working-class Brits, and youth who see the monarchy as outdated, oppressive, or simply boring.
This isn’t just about palaces and pageantry. It’s about who controls the story—and who gets left out.
Let’s break it down:
I. In The UK: Cost vs. Benefits, Nostalgia vs. Progress
1. The Cost of the Fairy Tale
What They Say: “We’re modernizing tradition—and we’re worth every penny!”
The Reality Check:
- The Costs:
- £345 million spent on the monarchy over the past decade (Republic UK, 2023).
- £100 million+ for King Charles III’s coronation in 2023—amid a cost-of-living crisis.
- The Benefits:
- £1.8 billion annually from tourism (Visit Britain, 2023).
- Soft power: The monarchy as a diplomatic and cultural asset.
What’s Missing?
❌ Colonialism: No mention of the monarchy’s role in slavery, land theft, or empire.
❌ Taxpayer Priorities: Could £345M fund schools, hospitals, or housing instead?
❌ Republican Growth: 25% of Brits now support abolishing the monarchy (YouGov, 2023).
The 4-Layer Framework Connection (Layer 3: Spot the Patterns):
- Where It Appears:
- Tabloids: “Monarchy costs £100M—could that fix the NHS?” (The Independent).
- Political Debates: Republicans vs. monarchists fighting over budgets.
- Social Media: “Why fund palaces when nurses need raises?”
Why It Matters: This narrative reduces the monarchy to a spreadsheet—ignoring its colonial legacy and democratic deficits.
Human Story: “I’m a nurse. Last year, I got a 3% pay rise. The monarchy got £100 million for a coronation. That’s not just unfair—it’s a slap in the face.” — Sarah, 34, NHS worker (Republic UK supporter)
2. The Nostalgia Trap
What They Say: “The monarchy is our heritage—it unites us!”
The Reality Check:
- Older Brits: 60% of over-65s support the monarchy (YouGov, 2023).
- Tourism: The monarchy boosts British “brand” globally.
- Cultural Moments: The Queen’s funeral (2022) and coronation (2023) as symbols of continuity.
What’s Missing?
❌ Youth Skepticism: Only 30% of 18–24-year-olds support the monarchy.
❌ Colonial Legacy: Nostalgia ignores the pain of former colonies.
❌ Alternatives: Could Britain reinvent its identity without the monarchy?
4LF Connection (Layer 1: Dig Up the Roots):
- Origin: Queen Victoria’s “family monarchy” (1800s) → Elizabeth II’s “duty and service” → Charles III’s “modern relevance.”
- Purpose: Legitimize the monarchy as a timeless institution.
Why It Matters: Nostalgia sells the monarchy as sacred—but it erases the voices of those who never benefited from it.
Provocative Question: If the monarchy is so beloved, why are young Brits abandoning it—and what will replace it?
3. The Republican Challenge
What They Say: “The monarchy is undemocratic—abolish it!”
The Reality Check:
- Republic UK (2023): “Unelected royals have no place in the 21st century.”
- Polling: 25% of Brits support abolition (YouGov, 2023).
- Youth: Only 30% of 18–24-year-olds support the monarchy.
What’s Missing?
❌ Soft Power: The monarchy’s diplomatic and cultural influence.
❌ Reform Alternatives: Could the monarchy exist as a ceremonial role with no political power?
❌ Transition Costs: What would replacing the monarchy actually look like?
4LF Connection (Layer 4: Rewrite for Justice):
- Current Framing: “Abolish the monarchy—it’s a waste of money!”
- Rewritten Narrative: “Let’s reform the monarchy: transparent, accountable, and aligned with modern values—or abolish it entirely.”
Why It Matters: Republicans demand democracy, but their narrative often ignores the monarchy’s cultural role.
Bold Statement: The monarchy’s survival depends on selling nostalgia—but what happens when the next generation isn’t buying?
II. The Commonwealth view: Colonialism, Reparations, and Self-Determination
1. The Colonial Relic
What They Say: “The monarchy is a symbol of oppression—it’s time for reparations!”
The Reality Check:
- Caribbean Reparations Commission (2021): Demanded £19 trillion in reparations for slavery.
- Barbados (2021): Removed the monarch as head of state—”This is about dignity, not dollars.” (President Sandra Mason).
- Jamaica (2022): Sent a letter to King Charles demanding apologies and reparations.
What’s Missing?
❌ Monarchy’s Modern Role: The Crown still profits from former colonies (e.g., Crown Estate lands).
❌ Soft Power: The Commonwealth provides diplomatic leverage for the UK.
❌ Alternatives: What would post-monarchy Commonwealth nations look like?
4LF Connection (Layer 1: Dig Up the Roots):
- Origin: British Empire’s exploitation of colonies (16th–20th centuries).
- Purpose: Maintain global influence while avoiding accountability.
Why It Matters: This narrative centers the voices of former colonies—and forces a reckoning with the monarchy’s darkest legacy.
Human Story: “The British monarchy stole our land, enslaved our ancestors, and still profits from us. Why should we keep them as our head of state?” — Aisha, 28, Jamaican activist (Caribbean Reparations Commission)
2. The Self-Determination Movement
What They Say: “We want our own head of state—no more British monarchy!”
The Reality Check:
- Barbados (2021): Became a republic—”Our destiny is in our hands.”
- Jamaica, Antigua, Belize (2023): Actively discussing removing the monarch.
- Australia and Canada: Growing republican movements post-Elizabeth II.
What’s Missing?
❌ Economic Ties: The monarchy boosts trade and tourism—would republics lose this?
❌ Cultural Identity: Some Commonwealth citizens still value the monarchy’s symbolic role.
❌ Transition Risks: Could going republic create instability?
4LF Connection (Layer 2: Track Adaptations):
- Origin: Post-colonial independence movements (20th century).
- Modern Shift: From “Commonwealth loyalty” to “self-determination.”
Why It Matters: This narrative challenges the monarchy’s global relevance—and asks: “What comes after the Crown?”
Provocative Question: If the Commonwealth ditches the monarchy, what new stories will replace it?
III. Global Narratives: Celebrity, Diplomacy, and Irrelevance
1. The Celebrity Monarchy
What They Say: “The royals are global stars—just like Hollywood A-listers!”
The Reality Check:
- Media Frenzy: The monarchy is covered like celebrities (e.g., People, Hello! magazines).
- Pop Culture: The Crown, royal weddings, and Kate’s fashion dominate global media.
- Soft Power: The monarchy boosts Britain’s global image.
What’s Missing?
❌ Colonial Critiques: Global audiences see the monarchy as a fairytale—ignoring its dark history.
❌ Working-Class Realities: The monarchy’s wealth vs. global inequality.
❌ Republicans Abroad: Many non-Brits see the monarchy as irrelevant.
4LF Connection (Layer 3: Spot the Patterns):
- Where It Appears:
- Entertainment Media: “Kate’s Style Evolution!” (Vogue).
- Social Media: #RoyalFamily trends globally—but not in former colonies.
- Diplomacy: The monarchy as Britain’s “secret weapon” in trade deals.
Why It Matters: The monarchy’s global brand is strong—but it’s built on erasing its colonial past.
Bold Statement: The monarchy’s global fame depends on ignorance—what happens when the world stops buying the fairytale?
2. The Diplomatic Tool
What They Say: “The monarchy is Britain’s greatest soft power asset!”
The Reality Check:
- Trade Deals: The monarchy opens doors for British businesses.
- Commonwealth Diplomacy: The King’s global tours strengthen ties.
- Cultural Influence: The monarchy shapes Britain’s global image.
What’s Missing?
❌ Colonial Baggage: Many nations resent the monarchy’s historic role.
❌ Declining Influence: Younger generations don’t care about the Crown.
❌ Alternatives: Could Britain maintain soft power without the monarchy?
4LF Connection (Layer 4: Rewrite for Justice):
- Current Framing: “The monarchy is essential for diplomacy!”
- Rewritten Narrative: “Britain’s soft power should not depend on an unelected monarchy—let’s build new, democratic symbols.”
Why It Matters: This narrative assumes the monarchy is irreplaceable—but what if it’s not?
Human Story: “As a diplomat, I’ve seen how the monarchy opens doors—but I’ve also seen how it closes them in former colonies. It’s a double-edged sword.” — David, 45, former British diplomat
3. The Irrelevance Argument
What They Say: “The monarchy is outdated—who cares?”
The Reality Check:
- Gen Z: Only 30% of 18–24-year-olds support the monarchy (YouGov, 2023).
- Social Media: TikTok and Twitter mock the monarchy as a relic of the past.
- Global Indifference: Outside the UK/Commonwealth, many see the monarchy as boring or irrelevant.
What’s Missing?
❌ Cultural Role: The monarchy still matters to older generations.
❌ Soft Power: Even if youth don’t care, the monarchy boosts Britain’s global brand.
❌ Reform Potential: Could the monarchy reinvent itself for Gen Z?
4LF Connection (Layer 4: Rewrite for Justice):
- Current Framing: “The monarchy is irrelevant!”
- Rewritten Narrative: “The monarchy must prove its relevance—or make way for something new.”
Why It Matters: This narrative reflects the monarchy’s biggest threat: Youth don’t care—and they won’t miss it when it’s gone.
Provocative Question: If the monarchy disappeared tomorrow, would anyone under 30 even notice?
IV. The Erased Narratives: Who’s Not Being Heard?
1. Indigenous Perspectives
What They Say: “The monarchy symbolizes land theft and cultural erasure—it’s time for justice!”
The Reality Check:
- First Nations (Canada): The Crown stole Indigenous land and imposed colonial rule.
- Māori (New Zealand): The monarchy erased Indigenous sovereignty.
- Australia’s Aboriginal Peoples: The monarchy legitimized displacement.
What’s Missing?
❌ Land Back Movements: Calls for returning stolen land to Indigenous peoples.
❌ Cultural Reparations: The monarchy owes more than apologies.
❌ Modern Complicity: The Crown still profits from Indigenous land.
4LF Connection (Layer 1: Dig Up the Roots):
- Origin: British colonialism (16th–20th centuries).
- Purpose: Maintain control over Indigenous lands and resources.
Why It Matters: This narrative exposes the monarchy’s ongoing harm—and demands real reparations, not just PR stunts.
Human Story: “The British Crown stole our land, banned our languages, and erased our culture. Until they give it back, their apologies mean nothing.” — Tom, 50, First Nations activist (Canada)
2. Working-Class Brits
What They Say: “While we struggle, the royals live in palaces—why should we care about them?”
The Reality Check:
- Cost of Living Crisis: The monarchy’s £100M+ cost feels obscene amid austerity.
- Class Divide: The royals symbolize elite privilege.
- Satirical Media: Shows like “The Windsors” mock the monarchy as out of touch.
What’s Missing?
❌ Monarchy’s Economic Role: The Crown Estate generates £345M annually—does this justify its cost?
❌ Working-Class Royalists: Some still support the monarchy as a symbol of national pride.
❌ Charity Work: The royal family supports thousands of charities—does this offset its cost?
4LF Connection (Layer 3: Spot the Patterns):
- Where It Appears:
- Tabloids: “Why are we paying for Harry’s security while our NHS collapses?”
- Protests: “Abolish the monarchy—fund our schools!”
Why It Matters: This narrative highlights class divides—and asks: “Does the monarchy serve ordinary people or just the elite?”
Bold Statement: *The monarchy’s wealth *isn’t just unfair—it’s a reminder of who Britain really values.
3. Feminist and Racial Justice Narratives
What They Say: “The monarchy’s treatment of women and people of color exposes its systemic biases—it’s time for change!”
The Reality Check:
- Meghan Markle’s Experience: Racism and media abuse exposed the monarchy’s institutional biases.
- Kate vs. Meghan: Double standards in how the media treats white vs. Black royal women.
- Historical Sexism: From Queen Victoria’s control over her daughters to Diana’s media exploitation.
What’s Missing?
❌ Kate’s Complicity: Does she benefit from the same system that tormented Meghan?
❌ Future of Royal Women: Will Princess Charlotte face the same scrutiny?
❌ Systemic Reform: Could the monarchy ever be truly feminist or anti-racist?
4LF Connection (Layer 1: Dig Up the Roots):
- Origin: The monarchy’s patriarchal traditions (e.g., male primogeniture until 2013).
- Modern Adaptation: Kate and Meghan’s public roles reflect competing visions of modern womanhood.
Why It Matters: This narrative exposes the monarchy’s hypocrisy—and demands real accountability for sexism and racism.
Human Story: “I loved Kate until I saw how they treated Meghan. Now I realize the monarchy isn’t about fairness—it’s about keeping up appearances.” — Lisa, 29, Black British feminist
4. Environmental Hypocrisy
What They Say: “The monarchy preaches climate action—but lives like climate villains!”
The Reality Check:
- Royal Travel: Private jets and helicopters (e.g., William’s climate hypocrisy).
- Palace Carbon Footprint: Buckingham Palace’s energy use exceeds 100 UK homes.
- William’s Earthshot Prize: A PR move to greenwash the monarchy’s environmental impact.
What’s Missing?
❌ Land Holdings: The Crown Estate owns vast lands—could they be used for renewable energy?
❌ Tradition vs. Sustainability: Can the monarchy reconcile historic rituals (e.g., coronation oils) with modern climate goals?
❌ Public vs. Private: The monarchy preaches climate action but lives lavishly.
4LF Connection (Layer 3: Spot the Patterns):
- Where It Appears:
- Media: “William’s private jet hypocrisy.” (The Guardian)
- Activist Critiques: “The monarchy is a climate disaster.” (Extinction Rebellion)
Why It Matters: This narrative challenges the monarchy’s climate credibility—and exposes its hypocrisy.
Provocative Question: If the monarchy really cared about the planet, would it give up its palaces and private jets?
V. How to Rewrite the Monarchy’s Narratives for Justice
| Current Narrative | Erased Perspective | Rewritten Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| “We’re modernizing tradition.” | Colonialism, taxpayer costs | “Modernizing means acknowledging the past—including colonialism—and justifying our cost to taxpayers.” |
| “Kate and William: Flawless!” | Scrutiny, privilege, Meghan comparison | “Kate and William are human—flawed, privileged, and under immense pressure. Let’s talk about that.” |
| “They’re our heritage!” | Youth skepticism, colonial legacy | “The monarchy’s future depends on winning over young people and addressing colonial legacies.” |
| “Abolish the monarchy!” | Soft power, cultural heritage | “Abolition isn’t the only option—what if we reformed the monarchy into a ceremonial, accountable role?” |
| “The monarchy is irrelevant.” | Youth engagement efforts, alternatives | “The monarchy must prove its relevance—or make way for something new.” |
| “The monarchy is a colonial relic.” | Modern diplomatic role, soft power | “The monarchy must acknowledge its colonial past and redefine its global role—or risk irrelevance.” |
| “The monarchy boosts diplomacy!” | Colonial baggage, declining influence | “Britain’s soft power should not depend on an unelected monarchy—let’s build new, democratic symbols.” |
| “The monarchy is a climate disaster.” | Land holdings, potential for reform | “The monarchy could lead on climate action—if it practiced what it preached.” |
VI. Who’s Challenging These Narratives?
| Group | Their Critique | Their Alternative Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Republic UK | “Unelected royals have no place in democracy.” | Elected head of state, no monarchy. |
| Caribbean Reparations Commission | “The monarchy owes reparations for slavery and colonialism.” | Apologies, reparations, and removal of the monarch as head of state. |
| Indigenous Activists | “The Crown stole our land and erased our culture.” | Land back, cultural reparations, and decolonization. |
| Feminist Groups | “The monarchy is sexist and racist—Meghan’s treatment proves it.” | Reform the monarchy to center women and people of color. |
| Climate Activists | “The monarchy’s climate hypocrisy is unacceptable.” | Divest from fossil fuels, use Crown lands for renewable energy. |
| Youth Movements | “The monarchy is irrelevant—we don’t care.” | Abolish or radically reform it to reflect modern values. |
| Working-Class Brits | “Why fund palaces when we’re struggling?” | Redirect monarchy funds to public services. |
VII. Why This Matters: The Monarchy Is a Network of Narratives
To conclude, the British monarchy is more than an institution – it’s a battleground of narratives, each pulling it in a different direction.
Economically, it’s a net positive, generating billions in tourism and Crown Estate profits while costing taxpayers a fraction of that—but from the moral and ethical perspective its colonial legacy and democratic deficits complicate the picture. There’s also a generation gap: for older Brits and traditionalists, it’s a symbol of stability and heritage, but younger generations see it as outdated and irrelevant, a relic clinging to nostalgia.
Meanwhile, former colonies like Barbados and Jamaica view it as a remnant of oppression, demanding reparations and self-determination rather than royal pageantry. On a personal level , the interviews of Kate, William, and Meghan reveal the human cost of royal life—scrutiny, privilege, and the impossible pressure to be both relatable and regal.
As an institution its global soft power—diplomatic influence, cultural prestige—remains undeniable, even as critics argue it’s undemocratic by design.
Thus, the monarchy’s future hinges on which of these stories gains traction: Will it adapt, resist, or be rewritten by the voices it’s long ignored? The debate isn’t just about money or tradition—it’s about who controls the narrative, and whether an institution built on the past can survive in a world demanding accountability. The monarchy’s story is still being written—and the next chapter will be shaped by which voices we choose to amplify.
Your Turn: Hack the Monarchy’s Narratives
- Which narrative surprised you most? (The colonial relic? The feminist critique? The youth perspective?)
- Where do you see these narratives clashing? (E.g., UK vs. Caribbean debates?)
- Want to dive deeper into one? Pick a narrative—I’ll help you apply the 4LF to it.