Sex work is a controversial form of income. It is a subject much discussed by experts in feminism, religion, law and politics. And its popular portrayal is often left to people far removed from the realities of sexual commerce. Those who wrongly conflate sex work with human trafficking and exploitation would like to see it abolished. In Brazil, sex work remains politically and socially contentious. But thanks to a staunch sex worker movement in the country, the people who actually do the work have made themselves key contributors to the debate.
It is a movement which has informed political policy, affected legislation in urban reform and sexual healthcare and fought tirelessly for the full recognition of sex work as a profession. This year marks the 30th anniversary of that movement. As part of the celebrations, an international exhibition is being held which features photographs taken by sex workers.
But it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the lessons that can be learned from three decades of an organization representing the best interests of sex workers. As in many countries around the world, the legal status of prostitution in Brazil is vague. The criminal code issued in criminalised prostitution-related activities such as recruitment and facilitation, but not the direct sale of sex.
A more precarious and isolated environment, it increased the need and appetite for some kind of organization among the people working there. Conversation focused on state repression, health, collective identity and female sexual desire. It was a crucial moment of increased social tolerance. Some years later, in the lead up to two huge sporting events due to be held in the country — the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games — Brazilian public discourse once again focused on anti-trafficking strategies, which further conflated forced migration and sexual exploitation with adult, consensual sex work — and served to reignite the abolitionist agenda.
The exhibition which is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council provides an insight into the mundane, everyday experiences of those working far away from the slick and glamorous portrayal of an international sporting spectacle.
