Inside Perspective: The Unintended Consequences of Anti-Trafficking Legislation on Consensual Sex Work
In a sweeping change that has redefined online expressions of sexuality, the U.S. government’s implementation of a new law aimed at curbing sex trafficking has unintentionally escalated risks for consensual sex workers. Enacted in 2018, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) and the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) were intended to serve as powerful deterrents against illicit sexual exploitation. However, for many working in the sex industry by choice, these laws have complicated their ability to operate safely. Originally, platforms such as Craigslist and Backpage provided a way … Read more