Bindel argues that this legislation, while seemingly progressive, actually serves the interests of pimps and brothel owners, further normalizing and even encouraging the exploitation of women. She highlights the inherent dangers and violence within the sex trade, emphasizing that it cannot be equated with legitimate employment.
Bindel criticizes the lobbying efforts of groups advocating for the decriminalization of prostitution, accusing them of prioritizing the "rights" of men to buy sex and the profits of the sex industry over the safety and well-being of women. She cites examples from other countries, such as the Netherlands and New Zealand, where similar policies have failed to protect sex workers and have instead led to increased exploitation and violence.
Ultimately, Bindel asserts that framing prostitution as "just another job" is a dangerous and deceptive tactic that dehumanizes women and ignores the fundamental human rights violations inherent in the sex trade.
Some studies suggest that decriminalization in New Zealand has led to improvements in sex workers' health and safety, reduced stigma, and increased their ability to report abuse without fear of legal repercussions. For example, a study found that over 60% of sex workers felt more able to refuse clients after decriminalization, and 95% felt they had increased rights. Additionally, some sex workers have successfully used the legal system to address exploitation and harassment, such as in a 2014 case where a sex worker won a sexual harassment case against a brothel operator.