IAPB statement on the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

Her Majesty the Queen has been the defining figure in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and the world for nearly a century. Her sense of duty and devotion to a life of service has set an unprecedented example, not least through her involvement in over 600 charities and organisations throughout her time as Monarch. Her work within the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth through these charities has helped enact significant social change and vital encouragement for this work. 

We in the sight sector are particularly indebted to Her Majesty for her work in advocating for and advancing universal access to sight. Through organisations like The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, Sightsavers, IAPB and others, Her Majesty, and the Royal Family more widely, have been a huge support to not just the sight sector, but everyone in the world in need of access to basic eye care. We are hugely grateful for all that Her Majesty has done to support our work. 

Her Majesty’s loss will be felt so deeply around the country and around the world. On behalf of everyone at IAPB and our members, we offer our sincerest condolences to the Royal Family.