Sex workers who are legally protected and empowered to set boundaries can access justice and receive specialist support. MSN reports that’s what a recent study found in places where sex work is decriminalized. In contrast, that same study found those in a criminalized setting were more vulnerable to exploitation and conditions of modern slavery and less likely to report abuse. 

Criminalization leads to stigma and fear 

Current research across four legal jurisdictions examining sexual violence in the field of sex work underlines what many have been saying for years. Decriminalizing sex work reduces stigmas and affords workers the ability to negotiate consent and seek support when violations occur. Subsequently, reducing vulnerability to exploitation and abuse. 

Professor Teela Sanders, in the School of Criminology at the University of Leicester, says: 

“Stigma against sex workers—particularly in criminalized and partially criminalized settings—can be embedded within essential services such as health care and policing. This stigma often leads to compounded harm for sex workers, further alienating them from the services they need.” 

The study found sex workers in criminalized settings faced legal barriers and a fear of law enforcement. Thus, without legal protections, they were far less likely to report abuse and exploitation. This was a stark contrast to those working in decriminalized or legalized settings like New Zealand and Nevada’s managed brothels.

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