Sex Work

Sex work remains one of the most hotly debated issues in the United States and around the world. Should it be criminalised, legalised, or fully decriminalised? Each model comes with promises and pitfalls — impacting not only the workers themselves, but also public health, safety, and society at large.

This discussion will look at sex work through multiple layers of the so-called “whorearchy” — from online webcam performers to brothel workers to street-based sex workers — and consider how legal frameworks affect each group differently. We’ll explore arguments in favor of legalisation or decriminalisation (such as improved safety, reduced stigma, and recognition of sex work as labor), as well as arguments against (including concerns about exploitation, trafficking, and broader social costs).

Along the way, we’ll also discuss related questions:

• How do stigma, mental health, and social support shape the lives of sex workers?
• What role should confidentiality and client privacy play if laws change?
• How do cultural attitudes and economic pressures fuel the ongoing debate?
• What can we learn from international case studies where different legal models have been tested?

This session is not about finding an easy answer, but about engaging with one of society’s most complex and controversial questions — with nuance, openness, and respect for differing perspectives.

RELEVANT CONTENT:

Background on “Whorearchy”

• Whorearchy description – Monique Duggan Blog

Arguments for Legalisation / Decriminalisation

• A Guide to Legal Models in Sex Work – NSWP
• Impact of Criminal Law on Health, Safety, and Human Rights of Sex Workers – Opinio Juris
• Consequences of Criminalization – Yale Law School – Global Health Justice Partnership
• Why Sex Work Should Be Decriminalised – Red Umbrella Fund
• International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers (Advocacy Piece) – Lambda Legal
• NSWP – Global Network of Sex Work Projects (Resource Hub) – NSWP
• Decriminalisation of Sex Work: Research & Debates – International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy

Psychology & Clients

• Dark Triad Traits in Male Clients of Commercial Sex – Frontiers in Psychology

Arguments Against Legalisation / Decriminalisation

• Ten Reasons for NOT Legalizing Prostitution – CATW International