FROM FEMINIST DEBATES TO FEMINIST POLICY
TOWARD A POLYMORPHOUS DISCOURSE IN PROSTITUTION REGULATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.9771/rds.v6i2.66251Palavras-chave:
Prostitution, Prostitution Policy, Policy Discourse, Policy Reform, Women Involved in ProstitutionResumo
Prostitution is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that necessitates diverse approaches. Feminist debates have resulted in two dominant discourses - empowerment and oppression - which significantly shape prostitution policies and models. This study critiques these discourses by emphasizing their limitations and explores an alternative perspective that acknowledges the complexity of prostitution. The findings suggest that existing prostitution policies tend to be overly simplistic and fail to address the diverse experiences of WIPs. A uniform policy model cannot be effectively applied across all prostitution settings. Accordingly, the study introduces the concept of a “polymorphous discourse,” advocating for a balanced and adaptive policy framework. This includes a hybrid policy model that combines decriminalization for voluntary prostitution with health and social welfare regulations while applying partial criminalization to forced prostitution. The study also highlights the importance of including WIPs in policymaking processes, recognizing them as experts of their own experiences. Effective prostitution policies must be adaptable, grounded in scientific research, and able to adjust to the realities of WIPs. A polymorphous discourse – one that reflects the dynamics of law, social reality, and feminist perspectives – is necessary to avoid unintended consequences. Including WIPs voices in policy development ensures that the resulting policies are reflective of and responsive to their lived experiences. Policymakers should develop prostitution policies that differentiate between voluntary and forced prostitution, prioritizing decriminalization of voluntary prostitution. Moreover, social support structures, such as health and welfare services, should be integrated to protect WIPs. Including WIPs in policy discussions at both the local and national levels is crucial for creating effective, equitable, and socially just prostitution policies.
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