The Perceptions of Prostitution, Sex Work, and Sex Trafficking among Young People in Spain

Abstract

This article analyses the viewpoints of Spanish youth regarding prostitution, sex workers, and their opinions on what the law surrounding sex work should be. Spain is currently in the grip of a great debate, tending to adopt the punishment of sex buyers. To investigate this issue, 3126 young participants aged 16–30 were surveyed through an online questionnaire in December 2020, which consisted of 21 questions. A factor analysis revealed three distinct perceptions of prostitution falling into three categories: ‘As a choice’ (22.8%), ‘as coercive’ (27.9%), and ‘as economic necessity’ (49.3%). Correspondingly, the legal positions on prostitution varied depending on the perceptions of paid sex: viewing prostitution ‘as coercive’ was associated with the criminalisation of prostitution, while considering sex work ‘as a choice’ was related to the regulation of prostitution. In conclusion, the young Spaniards surveyed do not consider all those who offer paid sex as victims of trafficking; instead, they differentiate based on the connection between trafficking and the sex industry. These diverse perceptions contribute to policy recommendations aimed at preventing the negative consequences of prostitution, implementing harm reduction measures to safeguard sex workers, and moving beyond dichotomous policies of criminalization and regulation.