Sweden : a pioneer in adopting the abolitionist model

Sweden pioneered the adoption of the abolitionist model of the prostitution system in 1999. Thirty years of research into the needs and realities of people in prostitution led to this landmark legislation, which, for the first time, criminalised sex buyers while decriminalising people in prostitution.

27 years on, the law is working: demand for the purchase of sexual acts stands at around 7%, one of the lowest rates in Europe. Just ten years after the adoption of the law prohibiting the purchase of sexual acts, pimping networks had turned away from the country, describing it as a “dead market” for prostitution, according to police wiretaps.

However, one piece of the puzzle is still missing: the protection of victims of the prostitution system, who are not recognised as injured parties but rather as witnesses to a crime against the State.

Together with its member organisation Talita, CAP International is therefore mobilising to secure comprehensive exit pathways from prostitution for all those who wish to escape this violence.

On 14 October, CAP International and Talita organised an event at the Swedish Parliament entitled “Swedish Sex Purchase Act: From Pioneer to Bystander ?”, with the support of our partners Unizon and the Swedish Women's Lobby, as well as the Centre Party and the Social Democratic Party. The event brought together 40 Members of Parliament from across the political spectrum.

Exit pathways from prostitution and protection measures for victims

Two survivors of prostitution, Caroline and Ottilia, took the floor to strongly urge Members of Parliament to implement exit pathways from prostitution and introduce protection measures for victims.

We reiterated the need to develop fcomprehensive exit pathways across the country. These pathways must address all the material needs of people in prostitution, through :

• A monthly financial allowance;
• Psychological support and access to healthcare;
• Free accommodation or financial assistance to cover rent;
• Vocational training and support towards social and professional reintegration.

Furthermore, CAP International and Talita are also advocating for victims to have access to compensation and reparation for the violence they have endured.

“Sweden was the first country to lead the way. Today it has the opportunity to fill in the missing part of a landmark law. We call on you to protect and bring the margins to the center. We call on you to protect, support and develop ways out of prostitutional violence.” Héma Sibi – Executive Director of CAP International