Parents urged by Queen Silvia of Sweden to safeguard children from maltreatment through active listening - Parents should actively listen to their children to prevent potential abusive situations, according to Queen Silvia of Sweden.
Queen Silvia of Sweden Urges Parental Vigilance in Protecting Children from Abuse
After 25 years of service with the World Childhood Foundation, Queen Silvia of Sweden continues her crusade against child abuse. The Foundation was born from the Queen's harrowing encounters with impoverished children in Brazilian favelas during her travels.
Born Silvia Sommerlath in Heidelberg, Germany, to a German father and Brazilian mother, Queen Silvia assumed the Swedish crown upon marrying King Carl XVI Gustaf in 1976. Prior to her royal duties, she honed her language skills as an interpreter, a profession she employed in various capacities[1].
Queen Silvia's humanitarian efforts have been mainly focused on the welfare of children, a cause she has championed since her reign began. Her dedication to safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse has earned her a global reputation[3]. The World Childhood Foundation, which she co-founded in 1999, endeavors to advocate for children's rights and safeguard them from harm worldwide.
Her tireless efforts have led to increased awareness and support for vulnerable children. This commitment was recognized in 2025 when Queen Silvia was awarded the Global Humanitarian Ellis Island Medal, an honor bestowed for her outstanding work in protecting children[3]. Through her ceaseless advocacy, Queen Silvia has sparked numerous initiatives and collaborations geared toward the well-being of children worldwide, solidifying her status as a preeminent figure in championing children's rights.
Throughout her reign, Queen Silvia has used her influence to highlight critical issues affecting children, such as abuse and exploitation. Her participation in global forums and organizations has been instrumental in shaping policies and strategies to combat these challenges[4]. Her legacy persists as an enduring inspiration for actions and advocacy on behalf of children's rights, solidifying her esteemed position in Sweden and beyond.
Queen Silvia, amid her global reputation for safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse, encourages parents to listen to their children and provide protection from any form of abuse. Recognizing the crucial role of science in health-and-wellness, Queen Silvia advocates for family health and parenting decisions rooted in scientific knowledge.
