Sisonke Calls for Dignity, Safety and Equal Rights for Sex Workers

Sisonke Calls for Dignity, Safety and Equal Rights for Sex Workers 

Sex workers in South Africa continue to face stigma, discrimination and challenges in accessing basic rights and services. This was highlighted during a conversation on Sakhisizwe - Building the nation bou die nasie with Yonella, Communications Officer at Sisonke National Movement, a movement led by and for sex workers that advocates for the decriminalisation of consensual adult sex work.

Speaking on the Sakhisizwe show, Yonella explained that Sisonke uses advocacy, awareness campaigns, social media and partnerships with other organisations to amplify the voices of sex workers and challenge the discrimination they experience. A key issue discussed was the difference between legalisation and decriminalisation. Yonella explained that legalisation would allow sex work but could place strict government controls and conditions on how and where it takes place.

Decriminalisation, on the other hand, would remove criminal penalties for consensual adult sex work between consenting adults, allowing sex workers to have greater protection and recognition of their rights. Yonella identified access to justice and healthcare as two of the biggest challenges facing sex workers. She explained that sex workers who report crimes such as rape may experience victim-blaming and judgement at police stations. According to her, this can discourage victims from reporting cases and can further contribute to their vulnerability.

Healthcare is another concern. Yonella said some sex workers experience judgement when accessing healthcare services, including when seeking condoms and other sexual health services. She stressed that these attitudes can prevent sex workers from accessing the services they need. The conversation also explored the impact of stigma beyond the workplace. Yonella said discrimination can affect relationships with families and communities and may force some sex workers to hide their occupation from people close to them. She argued that this isolation can have serious consequences for their wellbeing. Sisonke also emphasises inclusivity. Yonella said the movement does not discriminate based on gender or race and aims to represent sex workers from different backgrounds and communities. Another important point raised was the need to distinguish between sex work and human trafficking. Yonella said the two are often confused, despite being different issues. She called on South Africans to understand that sex workers should not automatically be viewed as victims simply because of the work they do.

For Sisonke, the conversation is ultimately about more than changing laws. It is also about creating a society where sex workers can access justice and healthcare, report crimes without fear of judgement, and live and work with dignity. The movement continues to call for greater understanding, reduced stigma and the recognition of sex workers’ human and labour rights in South Africa.

For information contact them on: 

066 0666 441

Facebook: Sisonke National Movement ZA

Written by: Oyisa Ntlombe