Sweden shows how the Nordic model could improve women’s wellbeing and create a better society

Proponents of the two main opposing models of legislating sex work (full decriminalisation versus the Nordic model) agree that criminalising sellers of sex is counterproductive, but the overall aims of and evidence for the two models were not fully explored by Howard. Our experience is that distress, trauma, substance misuse, poverty, or coercion can lead to prostitution, causing further emotional and physical harm. Harriet, survivor and activist, says: “My life is a catalogue of shame: sexual abuse as a child; chronic mental illness; homelessness; prostitution. Each layer of shame has augmented my sense of worthlessness. I was forced into prostitution by my ill health, a broken benefits system, and threats of eviction. Under full decriminalisation, this pathway would be endorsed by the state.” The Nordic model is a socially progressive movement, which sees prostitution as harmful to the public good and requires men to stop buying sex. Legislation to reduce demand and social programmes to support exit protect the most vulnerable. Conversely, full decriminalisation normalises prostitution as “work.”