Scotland for Decrim, an organization led by sex workers themselves, is advocating for the full decriminalization of sex work in Scotland. Its members, comprising current and former sex workers, academics, trade unionists, and third-sector workers, are voicing strong opposition to the proposed Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill
The Bill Puts Sex Workers at Risk
Sex workers are unequivocally stating that the bill, which aims to criminalize their clients (often referred to as the Nordic Model), will significantly increase their vulnerability and deepen their poverty. They point to the consistent pattern observed in every country where such legislation has been implemented: it endangers sex workers.
"Nothing About Us, Without Us"
A key concern raised is the drafting of this legislation without consultation with current sex workers. Those most affected by these laws assert their expertise on their own lives and the detrimental impact the bill would have. The sentiment "Nothing about us, without us" underscores their demand for inclusion in policy-making that directly impacts them.
Public Opinion Aligns with Decriminalization
Not only do sex workers oppose this bill, but the Scottish public appears to share this view. Surveys indicate that 69% of Scots believe the Scottish Government should prioritize protecting the health and safety of sex workers and providing support for those who wish to leave the industry. In contrast, only 14% support new laws preventing the exchange of sexual services for money.
The Bill Lacks Meaningful Support
Critics argue that the bill offers no genuine support for individuals seeking to exit the sex industry. It fails to provide financial assistance to struggling organizations that currently offer services to sex workers – a sector that the Scottish Government’s own research has deemed underfunded and unfit for purpose. Furthermore, despite research highlighting that a "substantial proportion of individuals are selling sex to get by financially," the bill proposes no changes to policies regarding benefits or housing that could alleviate poverty and prevent individuals from being driven into sex work out of financial necessity.
Challenging Offensive Language: "We Are Whole"
Outrage has been expressed over a quote included in the bill's consultation paper, which stated that anyone who sells sex is no longer a whole human being and can never be whole again. Sex workers firmly reject this offensive language, asserting that such rhetoric perpetuates stigma and violence against them. They declare, "We are whole, we are valuable, and we deserve to be heard."
Evidence Supports Decriminalization as the Safer Path
Sex workers emphasize that while the topic can be emotionally charged, discussions must be centered on evidence and, crucially, on their voices. All sex worker-led organizations in the UK advocate for decriminalization and oppose the criminalization of clients. The evidence, they contend, clearly demonstrates that the Nordic model, by criminalizing clients, escalates danger for sex workers without decreasing demand.
For instance:
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In Northern Ireland, a Ministry of Justice review reported a 225% increase in violence against sex workers after similar legislation was enacted. Ugly Mugs Ireland noted a near doubling of crimes against sex workers within two years of the law's introduction.
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In France, a Medicins du Monde report indicated that similar laws led to 42% of workers experiencing increased exposure to violence and 63% enduring a deterioration of living conditions.
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An Amnesty International report on the Nordic model's impact in Norway found that police primarily target sex workers for criminalization rather than clients.
Real Solutions: Support, Not Further Criminalization
Sex workers are calling for tangible solutions, including the introduction of rent controls, enhanced support for disabled individuals, and an end to attacks on their rights and income. They advocate for the implementation of a Universal Basic Income, a reversal of cuts to services designed to aid those escaping abuse, and a comprehensive overhaul of the immigration system to prevent prolonged poverty. Academics from Dundee and Edinburgh Napier universities have supported these measures as effective in tackling exploitation, in contrast to further criminalizing an already vulnerable group.
The consensus among experts is that full decriminalization is the most effective approach to ensuring the safest possible working conditions for sex workers. In New Zealand, where decriminalization was implemented in 2003, violence against sex workers has decreased, access to healthcare has improved, and relations with the police have shifted from adversarial to collaborative. In Belgium, which decriminalized sex work in 2023, sex workers can now form trade unions and have secured the right to maternity pay – measures expected to reduce exploitation and child poverty.
"Do Not Criminalize Us for Existing Within the Margins"
Bellatrix, a sex worker from Scotland, encapsulates the sentiment: "No matter your personal feelings on sex work, the evidence shows that decriminalisation is the safest for us. Not all issues are made better by involving the criminal justice system. Focus on how to help us avoid poverty, how to not lose our housing, how to find jobs that will actually work around our childcare responsibilities, and our disabilities. Do not criminalize us for existing within the margins."
Scotland for Decrim urges the Scottish public to join them in opposing this dangerous bill and advocating for the full decriminalization of sex work. Further information can be found on their website, scotlandfordecrim.org, or their Instagram page, scotland4decrim.