Prostitution Violence against sex workers is widespread in Switzerland

A new study shows that the stigmatization of sex work in Switzerland leads to frequent experiences of violence.

A recent study has revealed that sex workers in Switzerland are often victims of violence. The study, which was commissioned by the organization Procore, is based on interviews with 24 people from all language regions of the country.

At a media conference in Bern, the researchers emphasized that the study was exploratory and not representative. Nevertheless, the results reflect similar surveys from abroad.

One alarming result of the study is that around 70 percent of respondents reported "stealthing", i.e. the unwanted removal of condoms. In addition, around half stated that they had experienced discrimination, insults or theft of money or personal belongings.

The organization Procore argues that the cause of this violence is not sex work itself, but its social stigmatization. In its communiqué, Procore speaks out against a ban on buying sex and the punishment of clients, as practiced in countries such as Sweden and France. They emphasize that in countries where sex work is legal, violence against sex workers generally decreases.

SDA