Vårt enda värde är som offer: En intervjustudie om svenska sexarbetares perspektiv på avkriminalisering av köp av sexuella tjänster.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to deepen Sweden’s understanding of the prostitution debate by including sex workers’ perspectives. More specifically, it aims to analyze what sex workers think about the ‘Nordic Model’ VS. the strategies for decriminalization recommended by Amnesty International. The empirical data was gathered from interviews with sex workers in Sweden, from podcasts in which Swedish sex workers are interviewed, and from posts on the Instagram account Red Umbrella Sweden. The analysis is based on critical theoretical frameworks, in particular post-colonial theory and intersectionality and the result shows that the current legislation, tend to endanger sex workers lives, and reproduces norms that reinforces the stigmatization of sex workers in Sweden. Moreover, the result provides a discussion about how the radical feminists discourse seems to have a strong hegemonical power in Sweden and how it limits other perspectives to be heard. I argue for the need of a multidimensional discussion, where we see sex workers as a heterogeneous group and respect different perspectives and experiences. The study indicates that a more inclusive environment can provide an opportunity for challenging current power relations and therefore act empowering for stigmatized groups.