Here at Basis Sex Work Project, we welcome the release of Amnesty International’s Policy on Sex work, which sets out the obligations of states in relation to consensual sexual exchanges and reiterates the human rights of those who engage in sex work. The emphasis is not on moralistic judgement of those involved in sex work but on the respect, protection and fulfilment of the human rights of sex workers. Basis Sex Work recognise the unique ness and diversity of the women we work with and seek to empower and enable women to make the choices they want in their lives, free from coercion.
Partners in Leeds have taken a brave step in implementing an innovative ‘managed approach’ to sex work, challenging years of ineffective and damaging criminalisation and re-criminalisation of women. Our service is much more able to come into contact with women and support safer working practices now than at any time over our 26 year history. Women tell us:
“We feel much safer as we know the police will protect us and they helped me once when a man didn’t want to pay”.
“Now I don’t have to hide when negotiating, which previously put me in a more risky situation”.
Key to this is improved relationships between the authorities and in particular the Police and women sex working which has led to a hug e increase in the reporting of crimes against women sex working. Prior to the managed approach the % of reports to the police that included personal details of the women was 7% (in 2012) – in 2015/16 this is now 52%. By sharing personal details with the report, the police can now act on such reports and so at Basis Sex Work project we have supported 2 women to secure justice through the court process over the last 12 months with sentences of 8 and 10 years for perpetrators with a further current court case.
Underscoring this remains deep sadness about the continued violence and abuse faced by women sex working . Following the murder of Daria Pionko in December 2015, women were no longer afraid to come forward with evidence, leading to the arrest and charge of the perpetrator within a week. The improved relationship with Police and swift action and hefty sentences for perpetrators at court sends a strong message to perpetrators and to women about action on abuses they may want to report. However, we recognise the work still to do and remain committed to empowering women through our work.
Our call to action is for the Home Affairs Select Committee to take account of the multiple and global voices of sex workers who have contributed to Amnesty International’s policy. We will be supporting women in Leeds to exert their voice and influence also and contribute to this debate.
We also call to action any allies who will support us in ensuring respect, protection and fulfilment of the human rights of sex workers.
At Basis Sex Work Project we are hopeful that with the clear message provided by Amnesty International, states and authorities will find the compass that guides them in understanding sex work and ensuring responses based upon sex worker’s rights and safety.
Gemma Sciré – CEO Basis Yorkshire
26th May 2016