Decriminalising sex work could save lives, reduce exploitation, but ‘God doesn’t approve’

The church and the state do not see eye to eye about the world’s oldest profession and the decriminalisation of sex work.

Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola yesterday published and outlined the progress on the decriminalisation of sex work through the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill for public comment to be submitted before 31 January.

Sex work: God ‘does not approve’

Identity Church pastor Dr Sydney Avenant said, based on the scriptures, God does not approve of prostitution in any form.

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“Right from the beginning of God’s creation, He has made sex out to be something special and holy and should never be used for pleasure or a way of earning money. Sacred sexuality acknowledges that our life force and our sexual energy originate from the same source. It’s an expression of awe and wonder as we become one. Sex is sacred because of its role in bonding,” he said.

Avenant said they were concerned the proposed amendment goes against religious beliefs.

“We are facing high numbers of gender-based violence and the country is said to be the most dangerous for women to live in. Making this amendment to our constitution will mean that the sex trade and human trafficking will rise even more,” he said.

Sex workers abused

But Melodie van Brakel, founder of Cradle of Hope shelter for abused women and children, welcomed the proposed removal of the criminal law regarding sex workers and the implementation of a human rights-based approach regarding sex workers.

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Sex workers were often abused and risked being exposed to violence, HIV and unwanted pregnancies, she said.

Victimologist Professor Jaco Barkhuizen said decriminalising sex work took away the power of organised criminal groups and pimps to victimise and exploit sex workers.

– marizkac@citizen.co.za