Acknowledged by some as “the oldest profession in the world”, prostitution the act of getting into sexual relations or activities for a fee and is also referred to as commercial sex. While this act is rampant in many parts of the world, its legality varies in different countries. There are countries which permit it on a limited basis. However, there are those which consider it illegal while in others, it is legal. Prostitution has many types such as brothels, escorts, sex tourism and with the evolution of technology, virtual.
And while this practice exists in most countries, the debate about its legalization is still a contentious issue. Here’s a look on the advantages and disadvantages of prostitution decriminalization.
List of Pros of Legalizing Prostitution
1. Prostitution legalization can protect women for abuse and violence.
It cannot be denied that there are sex workers who get physically abused or become victims of violence from their pimps and even clients. Women prostitutes in countries or states wherein it is considered illegal are less likely to report to the authorities when they get hurt. On the other hand, legalizing prostitution can give women more rights and encourage them to seek help if a violation has been done to them.
2. It can reduce or lessen the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Unlike illegal prostitution wherein sex workers might be forced to engage in sex without condoms, legalizing it can allow the state to impose the use of protection when engaging in commercial sex and for the workers to get regularly tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
3. It can be added revenue for the government.
By legalizing this practice, brothels, workers and other related business will be obliged to pay taxes. Counties and cities with legal prostitution will be earning from tax revenues just like what they earn from other legal businesses.
List of Cons of Legalizing Prostitution
1. It is a dangerous business to get into.
Even with the decriminalization of prostitution, women and even children can still suffer from violence and physical abuse. People who are into this profession are prone to rape. The mortality of sex workers are higher as opposed people who have other jobs.
2. It can encourage human trafficking.
Human trafficking, especially of children, is rampant in some parts of the world and even within a country itself. With poverty driving some parents to sell their kids to sexual predators is alarming and if prostitution will be legal, more children will be coerced to be sex workers.
3. It can promote the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Once prostitution is legalized, it can encourage more people to solicit sex and commit infidelity. Some people are not keen into using protection. STDs can be contracted from having multiple partners and legalizing prostitution makes this commonplace.
Conclusion
The debate for the decriminalization of prostitution is unending, given the different opinions people have when it comes to legal, moral and health issues. And since this act is real and present, legal or not, the government, people of the community and the sex workers themselves should do their own share.