Prostitution, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is the act of having sex in exchange for money. I hardly need to define it for anyone as we all know what it is. We do not really speak about it or bring it up in our daily conversations, especially not as a viable career choice. In that sense, it is kind of like stripping. We may know people work as strippers and prostitutes, but we keep it hush hush. I say work because those are jobs and, in fact, are well-paying jobs.
Prostitution is completely illegal in a majority of countries around the world. In some countries it is legal without any type of regulation, and in others, it is legal with certain regulations, which include the illegality of brothels, collections of prostitutes working and operating together. Some people are trying to push for the legalization of prostitution in the United States. Various articles have been written on the subject by websites like the Business Insider, the Elite Daily, the Daily Beast, and several others. What does the media mean when it say legalize?
Prostitution could be handled in one of two ways: decriminalization or legalization. But, what do these two terms mean exactly? Legalization is exactly that; however, there will be regulations that come with that—government regulations, safety regulations, health regulations, etc. Decriminalization, on the other hand, is the removal of laws against this and other forms of sex work, which does not necessarily mean government regulation. What difference does it make whether or not there are regulations on prostitution?
Regulations need to be in place if prostitution becomes legalized. As it stands, prostitution is illegal, however, it still takes place. Who knows what goes on when the motel/bedroom door gets shut? Are these people using protection? Is the man/woman beating him/her? Diseases could be spread unknowingly. Prostitutes or participants may be hurt. This would not happen as often if there were regulations in place. Regulations could protect both prostitutes and participants from several dangers (STD's, violence, etc.). Decriminalization would not help anyone in the long run. Yes, it would decrease arrests, but it would not change anything about the system.
If you support legalization of prostitution, support government regulations on it as well. The two should go hand in hand if we want everyone to stay safe.
