Princess Madeleine Worried About Increase in Sexual Abuse of Children

By Laura Dekkers
Royal Central, Sweden

Princess Madeleine of Sweden has shared a heartfelt message on her worries about children who are abused and sexually exploited during the COVID-19 pandemic. As many people are encouraged to stay home, there is a significant increase in sexual abuse of children online.

King Carl XVI Gustaf’s daughter Princess Madeleine used her social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram to raise awareness about children who are sexually abused end exploited, especially during the corona pandemic. As many people have started their social distancing and self-quarantine in order to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, experts have witnessed a significant increase in the sexual abuse of children online.

The Princess, who is very worried about the situation, stated: “At this moment in time my thoughts are with the children around the world and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.” She referred to the high numbers the Swedish police have shared on the increasing amount of children who find themselves in the horrible circumstances of abuse. The children, who often feel unsafe at home are now obligated to stay there at all times.

In her message Princess Madeleine, who is a mother of three herself, called on parents and adults to be extra vigilant and keep their eyes open for situations of child abuse. Her Royal Highness stated: “Just as handwashing helps to prevent spreading COVID-19, caring adults are essential to protect children from abuse and exploitation, both online and offline.”

People might be inclined to believe that the numbers of sexually abused children are so low that an increase would still mean that the numbers are small. They are not! Globally, between one in 3 and one in 4 girls are sexually abused to the point of trauma. In some countries, I believe more than half of all girls are sexually abused. That means the numbers are in the hundreds of millions! A statistical increase of any amount means an awful lot more children whose lives are effectively ruined. 

Thank you, Princess Madeleine for speaking out. God bless you.

Princess Madeleine ended her message by sharing some more information and tools for adults on how to tackle these situations whenever they come across these awful deeds. She said: “As an adult, you have a very important role in these times of uncertainty, for your own children and for those of others. Links to relevant resources for parents/adults and children can be found at www.childhood-usa.org/resources.”

The World Childhood Foundation, which was founded by Queen Silvia of Sweden, shared the message of Princess Madeleine while also thanking her for her continued commitment to children. The World Childhood Foundation strives to end child abuse and believes every child deserves to feel happy, feel safe, feel loved and have a home. Princess Madeleine, who currently lives in Florida (USA) with her husband and their three children, has been working for her mother’s foundation for many years.