Conversation not just on sex workers, but the diversity of the sex industry as a whole – Integra Foundation

● The Nordic Model only pushing the sex industry underground

When it comes to legislative reforms relating to prostitution and human trafficking, it is not enough to focus solely on sex workers, but there must also be a discussion on the diversity of the sex industry, Integra Foundation director Maria Pisani (right) has said.

The Integra Foundation and Aditus Foundation state that this position is grounded in respect for the agency of sex workers. The two NGOs support the decriminalisation of consensual sex work and the implementation of laws protecting the health and safety of those in the industry.

Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Pisani explains this position:

“It is time to bring the whole conversation on sex out of the shadows so that we can fully address the ugly side of the sex industry,” she says, adding that the diverse nature of the industry also has to be considered. Such diversity is not just found among sex workers, she explains, but also among their clients. Sex workers must be allowed to work on their own terms, she states, and should be able leave the industry if they wish to do so.

Asked to explain the Integra Foundation’s opposition to the so-called Nordic Model, Pisani says that this would only push sex work underground, making those involved more vulnerable to abuse. “I find its neoabolitionist approach very patronising. Research shows that this model pushes services underground and exposes sex workers to additional danger as they have no control over their services.”

Decriminalisation not enough more services necessary – to ensure full protection of sex workers

Pisani warns that is not enough to simply decriminalise sex work. It is also necessary to provide services which protect sex workers, together with adequate funding and proper support systems, which would provide sex workers an element of control over their work.

“We are referring to appropriate sexual and reproductive health measures; safety and protection if they are ever in violent situations; improvement of police relations; all the necessary support systems to ensure that this form of work is not pushed underground.” She said that through decriminalisation, investment and support services, sex workers can operate in a safe environment.

“Sex work is extremely diverse. We all know that there are too many people forced into sex work, and we believe that no one should resort to sex work to survive. But we are also aware that a small percentage of sex workers choose to work in the industry, and although they are in the minority, they also deserve protection and support,” explains Pisani.

She states, however, that the question of trafficking is entirely different as there is no consent, but simply exploitation and violence. “We need to discuss human trafficking, and I believe that the weight of the law must be brought down on those involved in human trafficking.”

She says that much of the sex industry is dark and violent, and that is why the two foundations stress that decriminalisation is not enough and that rigorous reforms must be undertaken to ensure that sex workers are no longer exploited.