Sophie of Wessex
She calls for lessons on the prevention of sexual violence
Sophie of Wessex
© Dana Press
Sophie von Wessex spoke about one of her most important projects in an interview with the BBC: As a supporter of the government initiative “Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict”, she advocates measures to prevent sexual violence and to raise awareness of the issue.
For Sophie von Wessex, 56, the issue of sexual violence is one of the top concerns. Not just because she’s a woman. Not only because, through her work for the “Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict” initiative, she spoke to victims in crisis areas and heard testimonials that shook them to the core. Because in addition to these two reasons for their commitment, there is another aspect that drives them: The wife of Prince Edward, 57, is herself a mother of two and wants to keep her children away from any possible violence.
Sophie von Wessex: “The more people speak up …”
In an interview with the BBC, the Countess describes rape as an instrument of war and equates crime with the use of weapons. Young people in particular should be informed about the topic at an early stage. She herself would consider it useful if appropriate measures were taken in the schools. “I think the more conversations that go on and the more girls and young women dare to talk about these things and name them and name any kind of behavior they are not happy with, the more self-confidence they will hopefully get “says Sophie from Wessex.
The Wessex family seeks solace in condolences
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Young women in particular should be given the feeling of being able to talk about attacks or worries in their environment. “The more people speak up, the more momentum things will get. [….] I think it’s about having honest, open conversations in the family, but hopefully also in the school environment. “
Sophie von Wessex: Your children are aware of the urgency of the issue
She speaks openly with her children about her work with survivors of sexual violence. Daughter Lady Louis, 17, shows a “natural curiosity,” the Countess revealed. Son James, Viscount Severn, 14, was also aware of such abuses in society and was “fairly aware of this whole issue of inappropriate behavior between girls and boys.”
With her honest interview, Sophie von Wessex wants to serve as a mouthpiece for all victims who might otherwise not be heard. Above all, it is up to politics and the government that preventive initiatives continue to be launched. “It is actually one of the most vicious weapons of war there is, and people have to pay for it, and it has to start at the top.”
Sources used: bbc.co.uk, telegraph.co.uk