The social and legal trends of prostitution worldwide: an overview

Abstract EN

The global landscape of prostitution is polarized between two opposing viewpoints: abolitionism and legalization.

abolitionists condemn prostitution as an inherently exploitative practice that perpetuates gender-based violence and human trafficking, advocating for its complete criminalization.

conversely, proponents of legalization view consensual sex work as a legitimate form of labor deserving legal recognition, regulation, and protection of workers' rights.

this dichotomy reflects divergent perspectives on individual agency, societal values, and the state's role in addressing prostitution's complexities.

while some nations maintain prohibitionist stances, others progressively adopt models decriminalizing the selling but not buying of sex.

navigating this contentious issue requires nuanced, context-specific approaches prioritizing the rights, dignity, and empowerment of those in prostitution while confronting systemic drivers of exploitation.