What does decriminalizing sex work mean?The decriminalization of sex work is supporting the removal of criminal penalties for those who promote and engage in the sexual exchange of services between CONSENTING adults. It's giving voice and agency to sex workers and continually redefining the human right to personal autonomy and choice.
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By taking the position of decriminalizing, we still understand individuals concerns over the removal of all criminal laws and that it may take legalization to occur first before decriminalization. But our basis for the argument to decriminalize sex work is to acknowledge the importance of providing human rights to all, regardless of type of work. The price of criminalizing of sex worker has led to fear of violence, increased policing of marginalized groups, exclusion of labor law benefits, violation of human rights and has contributed in the public health crisis against HIV & STI transmission. By making our voices heard on the importance of decriminalizing sex work, we amplify the voices of sex workers. |
"The legal recognition of sex workers and their occupation maximizes their protection, dignity, and equality. The government must fully decriminalize to ensure that sex workers do not face discrimination in law or practice, thus insuring safe working conditions and access to public benefits and social safety"
- Human Rights Watch (2020)
- Human Rights Watch (2020)