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Sudirham , Tika Bela Sari, Decriminalization of sex work, Journal of Public Health, Volume 46, Issue 1, March 2024, Page e223, https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdad202
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Dear Editors,
In correspondence regarding articles in the Journal of Public Health1, the authors delve into an unexplored facet of the pandemic’s impact. By examining the intersection of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis, sexuality and the lives of sex workers, the article raises pertinent questions and draws attention to the dire need for understanding and advocating for this marginalized community.
Decriminalization of sex work has been a topic of discussion and advocacy for many years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has brought additional attention to this issue. On the other side, criminalization often forces sex work into the shadows and makes sex workers more vulnerable to exploitation, violence and human trafficking. Decriminalization can contribute to public health efforts during the pandemic by ensuring that sex workers can access information, resources and support without facing legal repercussions.2
Many sex workers faced economic hardship during the pandemic due to lockdowns and reduced client demand. Decriminalization can help sex workers access financial support and work-related protections during such challenging times.3 It can promote safer working conditions, including the ability to negotiate condom use and other protective measures, which can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission and other sexually transmitted infections.4 This is particularly important for promoting safe practices and preventing the spread of COVID-19.
The idea of decriminalizing sex work is a topic of ongoing debate, and the context of a pandemic introduces complex considerations.5 Balancing public health, safety, social perceptions and the well-being of both sex workers and clients becomes increasingly challenging. Approaches that prioritize support, resources and regulation might offer more immediate and practical solutions, while discussions around decriminalization could continue in a post-pandemic world. Ultimately, striking the right balance between individual rights, public health and societal well-being remains a complex challenge during these unprecedented times.
Funding
The author guarantees that this article has no sponsorship and does not get funding from any party.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest in this paper.
