Ametist Azordegan: “I know what it feels like to be a child and not have safe adults.”

Ametist Azordegan has long been one of Sweden’s most influential voices in music journalism and a committed force in children’s rights issues. Her drive comes from her own darkness – a childhood characterized by violence, abuse and silence. Today, she uses her experiences to create what she herself lacked: security, knowledge and adults who dare to be there.

Is there anyone who has inspired you to want to make a difference for children?
I had a very difficult childhood myself, with mental illness, violence and abuse in the family. It was a very lonely childhood with a lack of support and committed adults. I have realized that it has subconsciously led me to create security for children and young people.

How has your experience with children (e.g. through family, friends, work) influenced your commitment to children’s rights?
Recognizing how small and vulnerable children and young people are. When you are small, and perhaps forced to grow up too quickly because of traumatic events, you think you are strong. When I see 10-12 year olds today, I can’t believe that I was so small and fragile when bad things happened to me.

What issues in the field (sexual exploitation of children) concern you most?
I am passionate about raising children’s and young people’s awareness of digital safety and their rights online. Many children and young people spend large parts of their time online, in apps and gaming environments, where the risk of grooming and exploitation is high.

By educating both children and adults on how to recognize warning signs and protect themselves online, we can prevent more people from being exposed. I see it as crucial that both schools and parents are given the tools to talk about these issues in a way that feels safe and natural for children.