Rebecca Colt

FIGHTING FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS

Process Leader and Analyst at Barnrättskonsultern

From a young age, Rebecca was passionate about advocating for children’s rights and giving a voice to those who are unheard in society. Her commitment to fairness and social justice drives her work. “Morally and legally, we have an obligation to uphold the rights of every child.”

What do you do in your current role?  

I work for a consultancy that provides services for the public sector, focusing on collaborating with local councils and municipalities throughout Sweden to ensure the implementation of children’s rights in society, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. 

An example of a project I’ve recently worked on is Uppdrag Psysisk Hälsa in the Stockholm region where we educate and support professionals in social services, child psychology, and schools on how to work more closely together, with a strong emphasis on children’s rights and mental health support. 

Children and young people make up a diverse group, and I work with a broad cross-section of society. This includes disadvantaged children, those with special needs, and those living in both urban and rural areas. 

How did you get your first job? 

Ever since I wrote my thesis on human trafficking in Sixth form, I have been interested in pursuing a career in human rights and criminology. 

My first job was with an organisation composed of all the councils in the Stockholm region. I started as a junior analyst while pursuing my master’s degree, driven by a desire to explore domestic abuse and the health of children and young people. 

What motivates and drives you?  

Addressing the unfair treatment of children in society is crucial. As the most vulnerable members of our communities, children and young people depend on us, as adults, to protect and support them. We have a moral and legal obligation to ensure their well-being, not because of what we might gain, but because it is their unconditional right. We need to shift our perspective and recognise each child as a unique individual with inherent equal value to adults, while also acknowledge their distinct needs. 

What is most important when pursuing a career in human rights? 

In addition to education, gaining work experience is crucial. I volunteered at ECPAT for over ten years, which gave me a significant advantage when I secured my first job at the Swedish Police Authority. While some may view volunteering as a “nice to have”, it provides essential experience that can be invaluable in your career.

“Ever since I wrote my thesis on human trafficking in Sixth form, I have been interested in pursuing
a career in human rights and criminology.“

What was your experience like during your seven years at the Swedish School in London?

The school fosters a fantastic community atmosphere, providing a safe and stable environment that allowed me to reflect, grow and develop as a person. In my work within children’s rights, we emphasise the importance of schools offering a positive learning environment, which is crucial not only for academic success but also for mental health. In my view, the Swedish School in London ticks all the boxes – from the close relationship with teachers to the greenery surrounding the campus and the benefit of small class sizes. 

Living in London also made me a bit worldly. The school actively encouraged us to explore different cultures and we often did outings or went on school trips, ranging from Wales to Valencia. Languages were always my favourite subject in school, and I immersed myself in French and Spanish. The small class sizes made it feel more like receiving private tutoring than being in a traditional classroom. 

Prior to attending the Swedish School, you went to a British nursery. How has growing up in a bi-cultural environment influenced you? 

Growing up in two countries and cultures has profoundly shaped me. It has made me more open to the world and curious about different cultures. While I live in Sweden now and feel Swedish, I also maintain a deep bond with England and London. I believe that living abroad has made me a bit braver and more adaptable than I might have been if I had experienced only one culture.

What is the fondest memory you have from the Swedish School? 

The sense of community, the friendships I made, and the shared experiences all stand out vividly. Highlights include performing in the Lucia celebration at the Dorchester hotel on Park Lane, all the school trips, and of course meeting the Swedish King and Queen when the school celebrated 100 years.