Happening in Thailand

Decriminalizing prostitution protects prostitutes

The notion that prostitution is a normal or acceptable activity like any other is a deeply flawed and dangerous idea. Unlike other activities, prostitution has a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those involved, as well as the societies in which they live and operate.

Decriminalizing prostitution can open up a host of dangers and risks, both for individuals who may be targeted or coerced into prostitution, as well as for society as a whole. This can include the recruitment and training of vulnerable individuals to serve as prostitutes, perpetuating a system of exploitation and abuse that destroys their future prospects and well-being. It is simply not enough to allow strangers to engage in prostitution with prostitutes and claim that this represents some form of protection or legal recognition.

Instead, we must work to address the underlying social and economic factors that drive individuals into prostitution in the first place, while also providing support and resources for those who have been impacted by this harmful activity. This may involve a range of interventions, from education and outreach programs to comprehensive social and economic support for individuals seeking to exit the sex trade. Ultimately, only by recognizing the profound harms of prostitution and working to address them can we build a more just and equitable society for all.