13/12/2019
Embrace Dignity understands that the systems of prostitution, s*x trafficking and po*******hy are deeply rooted forms of racial, s*xual and economic exploitation and inherently a form of violence against women and other marginalised people. It is entrenched by poverty, inequality, and gender
violence.
Furthermore, we know that trafficking and prostitution in this current exploitative socio-economic, cultural and political context is resultant and sustained by the inequalities inherent in the oppressive system of patriarchy which governs society today.
In the conditions of deep inequality and poverty which characterise South Africa, it is false to assume that people bought and sold in the system of prostitution are exercising free choice and agency.
We understand that the system of prostitution and s*x trafficking are among the most severe examples of the oppressive system of patriarchy, targeting the most vulnerable in society and we do not accept that there is any choice, agency or safety in the system for women and marginalised people.
In view of the enormous harms inherent in the system of prostitution, we do not accept the system as a safe working industry; we know that prostitution cannot be considered as ‘work’ but should rather be seen as an institutionalised form of s*xual oppression, abuse, and exploitation.
We know that the s*x industry is based on the principle of supply and demand, with demand being the main driving force behind the system of prostitution, s*x trafficking and po*******hy.
We welcome the amendment made in 2007 criminalising the purchase of s*xual acts because criminalising the perpetrator rightfully places the spotlight on the demand for paid s*x. Where there is no demand, there is no supply.
We understand the criminal nature of prostitution means that people who are bought and sold in the system have no access to protection from the police, results in stigmatisation and serves as a barrier to accessing healthcare services and renders prostituted persons particularly vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.
We know that law reform is necessary in South Africa.
We understand provisions to abolish the s*x trade relate directly to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 4, 5, 8 and 16. For South Africa, the provisions to eradicate the s*x trade relate directly to the SDGs, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and South Africa’s NDP and government’s Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) with its 14 Outcomes.
