Prostitution is the business or practice of engaging in sexual relations in exchange
for money/payment or some other benefit. Prostitution is sometimes described as commercial
sex or hooking. Depending on the jurisdiction, prostitution can be legal or illegal. A person who
works in this field is called a prostitute or sex worker. The position of prostitution and the law
varies worldwide, showing differing opinions on victimhood and exploitation, inequality, ethics
and morality, freedom of choice, historical social norms. (Wiki).
We all know the meaning of prostitution and also have our opinions about it (not very good
though).
Decriminalization of Sex Work has been a pursuit of sex workers who are aiming for
recognition and legalization of their trade. In most countries, the act of performing sexual
favors in exchange for monetary gain is criminalized. Removing criminal prosecution for sex
workers creates a safer and healthier environment and allows them to live with less social
exclusion and stigma. Decriminalization of sex would reduce the risk of HIV aids and sexual
transmitted diseases. Sex workers are managed by 'gatekeepers' who may be brothel owners,
clients, or law enforcement figures, they limit the use of condoms and other protective
measures which in turn puts the life of these workers at stake. The workers not only face
problems like these but also violence against them is grave. A research conducted in more than
11 countries by Sex Worker’s Right Advocacy Network (SWAN) concluded that more than 200 sex
workers have experienced violence and discrimination. These acts of violence toward sex
workers often include abuse, rape, kidnappings, and sexual violence. It is difficult for sex
workers to seek criminal justice when it is reported that many police officers are partaking in
the sexual and violent abuse.
Coming to India and the sex workers outlook about decriminalization.
When you consider the laws surrounding sex work, in whichever country you are in, you could
listen to the politicians; religious leaders; media pundits - However, these are all people with an
opinion, the same as anyone else.
To really understand them, listen to them. They know their work, they understand their
problems and issues faced by them. Saheli Sangh, a collective which represents 2000 sex
workers in Pune oppose criminalization of their work. They say HIV/AIDS prevention cannot be
properly addressed while sex workers are getting arrested. An academic study in Andhra
Pradesh, found a link between police abuse and inconsistent condom use, leading to increased
HIV transmission. Clients, partners and managers of sex workers can physically, verbally and
sexually abuse them, knowing that the police will not do anything. Sex workers in India demand
decriminalization, rather than legalization - When sex work is legalized, sex workers face
regulations that force compulsory health check ups, compulsory licensing and designated zones
( Sex workers demand ‘decriminalization’, not legalization - The Indian Express.) There might be
many challenges which are unique to sex workers in India, however, sex workers in that country
are saying the same thing as sex workers in countries around the world. That is, only the
removal of criminal laws can give sex workers control of their work, fight STIs and seek justice.
This has become such a global human rights issue, that Amnesty International recently began
advocating for the decriminalization of sex work, after deciding to listen to sex workers before
deciding which way to take their campaign.
