A Message from the President of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation
For over 60 years, the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) has fought tirelessly against sexual exploitation, alongside a diverse coalition of passionate and committed advocates. Together, we have achieved countless victories that have made a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Our collective mission has inspired people around the world, highlighting our global impact in the fight against sexual exploitation. This legacy is not just a history of success; it is a foundation upon which we continue building a more impactful future: a world free from sexual abuse and exploitation.
At the 2024 CESE Summit, our coalition unanimously agreed that we are now at an inflection point—particularly regarding the vice and the value of technology—and that our strategies and tactics must adapt to effectively combat the web of sexual exploitation in the digital age.
We now find ourselves at another pivotal moment, a time to pause and reflect on who we are and the mission that drives us. As political polarization continues to escalate, it is more important than ever to foster collaboration across political divides. NCOSE’s nonpartisan approach is not just a tactic—it is the foundation that breathes life into everything we do. At the core of our direction are four key pillars that guide our work in this evolving political landscape. These pillars are our compass, anchoring us as we move forward with purpose in what has become an increasingly divisive environment:
1. Nonpartisanship:
Our focus remains on shared beliefs and values that bridge the political divide, rebuilding a common ground where compromise is possible. We are committed to listening, fostering relationships, and seeking what unites us in every conversation. To drive meaningful change, we engage with everyone and address every issue within the scope of our mission—no matter how polarizing the topic may seem. By informing and shifting perspectives from “No” to “Maybe,” and from “Maybe” to “Yes,” we welcome people from every perspective on the journey to more deeply understand the web of sexual exploitation and to make meaningful progress to end it. Embracing nonpartisanship enables us to work collaboratively, transcending politics to focus on meaningful solutions. NCOSE has held to this approach consistently through many administrations and political seasons. As far as it depends on us, we will remain committed to building understanding and driving change that respects the dignity of every person, regardless of political affiliation.
Across the political spectrum, we commit to continue to strive for NCOSE’s mission: “To prevent sexual abuse and exploitation at mass-scale by eliminating institutional practices and societal norms that perpetuate these harms.” We are guided by our founding principles:
- We view the commodification of people for sex as inherently harmful.
- We support laws that decrease and ultimately end demand by strongly penalizing those who pay to use others for sex.
- We work to prevent sexual exploitation by opposing policies and reforming systems that facilitate harm, and by championing those that center meaningful prevention.
- We support legal reforms that decriminalize victimization.
- We work to build robust services for those seeking freedom from organized sexual exploitation.
- We walk alongside survivors of sexual exploitation and abuse, listening to and honoring their experiences.
2. Pragmatism:
As we move forward, it is vital that we remain pragmatic. Ideological blind spots can derail progress and undermine our mission in an increasingly polarized world. Pragmatism allows us to cut through the noise, stay grounded in evidence, and focus on solutions that truly make a difference. Driven by compassion and guided by facts, we navigate uncertainty and build bridges where others see only divides. With a practical and collaborative approach, we believe remarkable, enduring results are within reach.
3. All People:
We are steadfast in our mission to end sexual abuse and exploitation for all people—regardless of race, ethnicity, class, religion, gender, migration status, or sexual orientation. Upholding the inherent dignity of every individual, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, is central to our work. We always consider the voices of survivors and parents, ensuring their experiences guide and inform our work. We strive to build a world where every person is valued and free from exploitation.
4. Boldness with Humility:
As our influence continues to grow, so does our responsibility to lead with clarity, integrity, and discernment. We commit to acting with strength and courage, making decisions grounded in our core values and in a commitment to truth over noise. Bold but never reckless, we approach challenges with open-mindedness and resolve, ensuring that our actions are fair, empathetic, and rooted in purpose. The opportunity is at our doorstep to create a vision for progress that not only achieves immediate outcomes but also fosters long-term impact for all those we serve.
With over six decades of dedication and countless victories in the fight against sexual exploitation, we now stand at a transformative juncture. This progress has been made possible by the unwavering passion, strength, and resilience of our team and supporters. Thank you for standing with us and for joining in this vital work. Together, we’ve changed lives, and together, we will reach even more. This is our purpose, our mission, and our shared calling.
Sincerely,
Marcel van der Watt, Ph.D.
President | National Center on Sexual Exploitation