The
decriminalization of sex work is the removal of criminal penalties for
sex work (specifically,
prostitution).
[2] Sex work, the
consensual provision of sexual services for money or goods,
[3] is criminalized in most countries.
[4] Decriminalization is distinct from
legalization[5] (also known as the "regulationist" approach).
[6]
The decriminalization of sex work is a controversial topic. Advocates of decriminalization argue that removing the criminal sanctions surrounding sex work creates a safer environment for sex workers,
[7] and that it helps fight
sex trafficking.
[8] Opponents of decriminalization argue that it will not prevent trafficking (or even increase trafficking
[9]) and could put sex workers at greater risk.
[10]
Organizations such as
UNAIDS,
WHO,
Amnesty International,
Human Rights Watch,
UNFPA, and the medical journal
The Lancet have called on states to decriminalize sex work in the global effort to tackle the
HIV/AIDS epidemic and ensure sex workers' access to health services.
[11][12][13][14] Almost all
organisations run by sex workers themselves around the world favour the decriminalisation of sex work, and it tends to be their main goal.
[15][16][17][5][18] The majority of
academics in the United Kingdom, the United States and elsewhere also favour decriminalising sex work.
[19]
www.yahoo.com
