Ep. 29 - Debunking the “Sex Work Is Work” Myth | Marcel Van der Watt & Benjamin Nolot
Mar 1, 2024
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Former criminal investigator Marcel Van der Watt debunks 'Sex Work Is Work' myth, highlighting the dangers of the sex industry. They explore the links between prostitution, trafficking, and online exploitation, shedding light on societal factors. The discussion also touches on men's sexual health and the importance of supporting anti-trafficking efforts.
Legalizing prostitution does not ensure safety for sex workers, leading to increased violence.
Corruption, not education or poverty, is a key predictor of human trafficking.
Pro-sex work narrative distorts human rights and gender equality, requiring a societal shift.
Online criminality facilitated by technology demands algorithmic accountability and collective protection efforts.
Access to sex workers and pornography harms men's mental health, relationships, and societal perspectives on sexuality.
Deep dives
Marcel's Involvement in Fighting Human Trafficking
Marcel's journey into combating human trafficking began during his time as a law enforcement officer in South Africa, where he encountered the sex trade and trafficking. His interest grew after encountering a missing persons case, leading to an investigation into sex trafficking and organized crime. This experience spanned over 20 years, exposing him to the global dimensions of human trafficking in countries like Thailand, Nepal, and Mozambique, highlighting the critical role of law enforcement in addressing such complex issues.
Common Threads in Human Trafficking
Marcel emphasizes the economic principles of supply and demand as underlying factors in human trafficking globally. He challenges academic ideologies by advocating for a practical approach to combating trafficking organizations. Marcel points out corruption, rather than education or poverty, as a stronger predictor of human trafficking. He highlights the detrimental impact of decriminalized systems and lack of rule of law, allowing trafficking and impunity to thrive.
The Impact of Legalizing Prostitution
Marcel critiques the argument that legalizing or decriminalizing prostitution ensures safety for sex workers. He questions the research supporting this claim and highlights flaws in studying the effects of such legislation. Marcel cites examples like New Zealand, where full decriminalization has led to increased violence and underreporting of trafficking cases. He advocates for the enforcement of laws targeting sex buyers and traffickers to ensure safety.
Challenges in Challenging the Pro-Sex Work Narrative
Marcel discusses the prevailing pro-sex work narrative, labeling it as a distortion of human rights and gender equality. He critiques the ideological framing and flawed research supporting the notion of prostitution as empowering. Marcel calls for a shift in societal perspectives on the commodification of individuals and a reassessment of policies to combat the harmful effects of the commercial sex industry.
Online Exploitation and Need for Accountability
Marcel delves into the online criminality and exploitation landscape, emphasizing the role of technology and AI in facilitating grooming and trafficking. Highlighting the interconnectedness of issues like gender-based violence, pornography, and trafficking, he stresses the need for algorithmic accountability and transparency in policy and technology. Marcel calls for a collective effort to address online harms and protect vulnerable individuals.
Men's Sexual Health and Impact of Pornography
In discussing men's sexual health, Marcel critiques the misconception that access to sex workers or pornography contributes to male well-being. He highlights the detrimental effects of pornography on relationships, loneliness, and mental health. Marcel advocates for honest conversations on sexuality to replace harmful narratives and create awareness about the impact of commercial sex industries on individuals and society.
Parental Guidance in Online Spaces and Combatting Exploitation
Marcel addresses parental responsibilities in monitoring and guiding children's online activities to prevent exploitation and exposure to harmful content. He emphasizes the role of technology companies in combating child sexual abuse online and the need for proactive measures to protect young users. Marcel underscores the importance of awareness and transparency in online environments to safeguard vulnerable individuals and combat criminality.
Future Conversations on Men's Sexual Health and Society's Role
Marcel alludes to future discussions on men's sexual health and society's role in addressing harmful narratives. He emphasizes the need for open dialogue on sexuality, mental well-being, and relationship health to counter damaging influences like pornography and exploitation. Marcel advocates for male engagement in shaping healthier perspectives on sexuality and relationships to foster positive societal change.
Appreciation for Activism and Continued Efforts
Marcel expresses gratitude for the activism and efforts of organizations like Exodus Cry in combating exploitation and raising awareness on human trafficking. He acknowledges the courage and dedication of individuals challenging harmful narratives and promoting accountability. Marcel encourages ongoing conversations and actions to combat exploitation and advocate for human dignity and justice.
This week on the Exodus Cry Podcast, Marcel Van der Watt dismantles the common arguments used to defend “sex work” as a safe and legitimate form of work. As a former criminal investigator with more than 20 years of experience in combating the intersecting criminal economies of organized crime, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation, Marcel speaks to the faulty arguments and “research” frequently held up by the pro-sex work movement.
Macrel is the Director of the Research Institute at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) in Washington, D.C. Marcel has consulted in and provided expert court testimony in several sex trafficking cases, briefed members of the US Congress on issues related to online criminality, and has trained multidisciplinary professionals from more than 30 countries.
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Exodus Cry is a leading global anti-trafficking nonprofit organization focused on ending widespread sex trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation, exposing this injustice for millions worldwide, and helping its victims to rebuild their lives.
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