Poya Ashtari: “Stopping child sexual exploitation and trafficking is a matter of responsibility”

Poya Ashtari is a social commentator, writer and lecturer who does not hesitate to step into the difficult conversations, not least when it comes to children’s right to safety. For him, the commitment is deep and personal, but also political. Inspired by strong women around him and driven by the desire to challenge a silent, destructive male role, he uses his voice to get more people to take responsibility – and especially men.

Is there anyone who has inspired you to want to make a difference for children?
I have been inspired by the women around me, from my mother to my colleagues, who have dared to talk about difficult topics and show their commitment to child safety. Seeing and hearing these women shouting about how they need men to get involved and take responsibility has motivated me.

How has your experience with children (e.g. through family, friends, work) influenced your commitment to children’s rights?
Having seen and worked with children living in social vulnerability with limited opportunities has deeply affected me. It has made me more aware of how social and economic deprivation makes children particularly vulnerable to exploitation.

Why have you chosen to get involved in stopping the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children?
Stopping the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children is a matter of responsibility. As a man, it is particularly important to be part of the conversation to counteract and break a destructive masculinity culture where abuse is normalized.

How do we get more people involved in the fight against sexual violence against children?
To get more people involved, we need to make the issue personal and show that this can happen anywhere. Sharing inspiration on how parents, teachers and others close to children are working to prevent sexualized violence.