A feminist approach to sex work

Abstract

The purpose of this technical brief is to promote a common understanding of an intersectional feminist analysis and approach to sex work in the context of Uganda, where multiple often divisive arguments have been advanced for or against sex work either by those drawing from the prevailing legal and policy framework that criminalizes any acts that fall under the orbit of what is considered sex work or by conservative forces such as religious or cultural leaders that view sex work from a moralist lens or by the feminist movement that draws on the consolidated opinions of four different feminist philosophies that stemmed from the “sex wars” of the 1980s such as abolitionism, neo-abolitionism, decriminalization and legalization or by the public health imperative of stemming STDs especially HIV/AIDs in the society. Further, this brief seeks to contribute to strengthening the voice and agency of sex workers and sex worker organisations to advocate for SRHR interventions that promote bodily autonomy and choice. Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), as one of the implementing partners under the Joint Advocacy for Sexual Reproductive, Health and Rights (JAS) Programme seeks to ensure that an intersectional feminist analysis is infused in the design and implementation of the program including the development of critical feminist analysis pieces on thematic areas of the program. This brief looks at the definition of sex work, the different legal and social contestations on sex work, and also elaborate on SRHR issues for sex workers.