What can public health learn from the time the state decriminalized prostitution? But the idea is a divisive one, stirring impassioned debates and concerns about the ways varying approaches could harm sex workers.
While prostitution is a crime in most places, there are notable exceptions and variations. The Swedish or Nordic model takes aim at the demand, making it illegal to buy sexual services but not to sell it. Canada has a version of that. Meanwhile in Germany, prostitution is legal. In Australia, the laws vary from state to state, but in some parts, sex workers can legally operate out of their homes, once registered.
While prostitution β the buying and selling of sex β is a multibillion dollar industry, the sex trade is clandestine by nature.
That makes it really hard to study, especially in the United States. For several years, ending in , indoor prostitution such as in massage parlors, strip clubs and through online escorts, was not a crime in this tiny New England State. The whole thing happened somewhat unintentionally.
But at the time, it fueled a heated public debate about sex, crime and health. Years later, some are revisiting the lessons learned. Margo St. James told a CBS Reporter back then. James talked of sexual revolution across the country, and in the summer of , her group brought that fight to Rhode Island as part of their goal to reform prostitution laws around the country.
