Stigmatization, (sexual) violence and credibility in sex work

Sex work is a polarizing topic, with diverse perspectives and attitudes shaping the existing discourse. On the one hand, the emphasis on freedom of choice over one’s own body and profession is one line of argument in this discourse. On the other hand, reference is made to the need for protection and criminal behavior in connection with sex work and forced prostitution, or human trafficking for sexual exploitation. The topic of sex work is therefore the subject of current legal, social and, not least, political debates. At the heart of these debates is whether the current legal situation can be considered sufficient. On the one hand, this is made clear by the current demands of political actors for the establishment of a “Nordic model” in Germany, which penalizes the use of sex work. On the other hand, this is also evident in the criticism of the existing Prostitute Protection Act, for example in Saxony.

While calls for the Nordic model in Germany are being made, the importance of a data base regarding the actual state of (sexual) violence experienced by sex workers as an intersectional marginalized population group, possible stigmatization and the impact of this, for example on the credibility of sex workers, as well as the interplay of both aspects, becomes clear. The project aims to contribute to promoting a balanced debate on the safety, rights and needs of sex workers, especially with regard to the Nordic model and the current legal situation. It also aims to gather evidence to better understand the realities and challenges of this population group. Research into the extent of stigmatization and its impact on affected individuals will help to uncover possible dynamics that can devalue, disadvantage or endanger sex workers. The project also aims to provide answers to the question of safety needs, the necessity of measures, framework conditions and preventive strategies.

The project combines different methods, such as dark field studies and population surveys, individual interviews and experiments, to help deepen the understanding of the safety risks and experienced (sexual) violence, as well as stigmatization and its impact on credibility, in sex work. The aim is to create an evidence-based foundation aimed at the protection and safety of sex workers. This can promote a constructive dialogue that takes into account the diverse aspects of this debate while contributing to improving the living conditions and safety of this marginalized population group.

Project process:

A population survey was conducted in summer 2024 to record perceptions and attitudes towards sex workers. Experiments and qualitative interviews with sex workers are also planned in order to explore the topic in greater depth.

Project management: Anika Radewald