By Tilda Nilsson, Programmes and Administrative Officer
Personally, I think the concept of eras has been watered down somewhat lately, but there is no denying that my time with CEASE has coincided with significant developments in fighting sexual exploitation. I remember how, in my first year here, I was asked to write a summary paper on the emergence of AI, deepfakes and nudifying tools. Today the various harms of digital exploitation feel almost commonplace. What will it all look like a generation from now?
Highlights of my time with CEASE
Since joining in 2021, CEASE has accomplished great things. We have published critical evidence on the harms of pornography in reports like Expose Big Porn and Profits Before People. We have hosted a number of events at the House of Lords, and we have spoken at various APPGs, conferences, and even the United Nations. Our partnerships with leading experts in the field, as well as national and international organisations, have led to new bridges being built and a stronger united front to tackle the commercial sex industry.
I would be remiss in neglecting the mammoth element of the Online Safety Act. Through tireless campaigning we were able to achieve vital amendments to a once in a generation Bill that had zero mentions of pornography to begin with. By ensuring that the highest standard of age verification for pornography was included, we helped enshrine in law that children should be protected from the harms of pornography.
Our work in bringing awareness of sexual exploitation to the public is also something I’m proud of. With a variety of events, both in-person and online, we have brought people from all walks of life to this issue, and person-by-person we are contributing to cultural change. Most recently, our newly launched webinar series are a great resource for information and education.
As for the CEASE Team, with their seemingly endless wells of knowledge, optimism and passion, there has been no better place to learn and grow. I would like to say a huge thank you to Naomi Miles, Chair and Founder, and Vanessa Morse, former Chief Executive, for bringing me on board. With the addition of Jo Black and Gemma Kelly, I gained two mentors to share the challenges of the job, always with trademark humour and grit. Our dearly departed Chief Executive, Dr Lucie Moore, will also stay with me, as well as her unwavering belief in people and their potential.
Relay race
I think of CEASE’s work in political campaigning and social and cultural change as a relay race. All of us come to this work ready to make our mark and contribute to the cause, but none of us can do it all alone. As I move on to the next steps in my career, I think of it not like leaving, but like passing the torch, with every intention to pick it back up when the time comes.
In the meantime, my commitment to the cause to end all forms of sexual exploitation remains steadfast. While I will no longer be working in the exploitation sector, I will continue to cheer on from the sidelines, just like anyone else can. I’ve made sure to sign up to the newsletter so I can take action as an individual in any future campaigns, and I plan to donate to support the cause as well. Having been on the inside of CEASE, I know how important these things are.
On a personal note, my time at CEASE has both unearthed and validated things I experienced growing up alongside the internet, and I have felt empowered knowing my work has contributed to keeping other children safer than I was.
It has been an inspiration and a privilege. I look forward to CEASE and others like it crossing the finishing line and putting an end to sexual exploitation.