Ida Kjos: “We parents need to understand the risks and have the courage to talk to our children and each other.”

As a lawyer, public speaker, author, debater, and mother, Ida Kjos is not afraid to confront the difficult issues. With a deep commitment to children’s safety – both offline and online – she shines a light on the hidden threats that exist all around us, in our homes and on our children’s screens. She stands firm in one belief: silence protects the perpetrator. That’s why she chooses to speak out – and to act.

How has your experience with children (e.g. through family, friends, work) influenced your commitment to children’s rights?
It is our responsibility as adults to safeguard children’s rights. And since becoming a mother myself, I have become aware of how difficult it is for children to protect themselves from the kind of abuse that occurs online, for example. The digital world has changed the playing field – abuse now happens not only physically, but also through online grooming and exploitation. As parents, we need to understand the risks and have the courage to talk to our children and each other.

Why have you chosen to get involved in stopping the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children?
Because it is one of the most brutal and yet most hidden forms of violence against children. Because it doesn’t just happen ‘somewhere else’, but also here, in our immediate surroundings and in our children’s digital world. We have the power to change – by talking about it, pushing for better legislation and ensuring that victims get redress and support. As a lawyer, I know how important legislation is, but also how essential it is to have a strong civil society pushing the issues forward.

How do we get more people involved in the fight against sexual violence against children?
By daring to talk about it. It’s easy to want to leave the uncomfortable stuff alone, but silence is the best protection for perpetrators. We need to make it a natural part of the conversation – in schools, at the dinner table, in workplaces. And we need to show that it is possible to make a difference: by becoming a monthly donor, spreading awareness or supporting organizations like ChildX.