Possible Consequences of the Criminalization of Sex Work in Spain, Inferred from COVID-19 Lockdown Measures

Abstract

Introduction: In this paper, we explore the possible consequences of the criminalization of sex work in Spain through an analysis of the measures adopted during the COVID-19 lockdown, which were tantamount to a prohibition of prostitution. Methods: We interviewed 69 female sex workers (19 of them trafficking victims) from the lowest stratum and six escorts from the upper stratum of prostitution, during the period from March 2020 to May 2021. We also conducted an ethnographic study in a hotel operating in the middle to upper stratum of commercial sex work. Results: The months of home confinement showed that the prohibition of sex work affected women in more precarious and vulnerable situations more adversely, worsening their living and working conditions compared to before the pandemic, whereas the impact on the escorts was far less. Conclusion: If commercial sex work in Spain were totally or partially criminalized, sex work would not stop taking place, and nor would the demand for paid sex cease to exist. Rather, they would be driven underground, worsening the quality of life, and both health and working conditions in the practice of commercial sex work for women. On top of that, the implementation of such a policy would reduce or eliminate sex workers’ relationships or collaborations with the police.