Prostitution’s legality has been an issue for decades. In America, the profession is illegal and consequently dangerous. A lack of security and an influx of people who turn to the trade out of financial desperation mean that many who enter into prostitution have no way out and no legality on their side. However, the complexion of this issue is set to change in Canada. According to an article published in The Globe and Mail yesterday, the highest court in Ontario has just legalized brothels and allowed for prostitutes to have security guards and other personnel for protection. As of next year, brothels will be classified as just another regular business place. Prostitution on street corners is still illegal; overturning that law was narrowly rejected.
Of course, the last portion preventing prostitution openly on streets will dispel a lot of criticism regarding this issue. Legalizing prostitution will ensure that the profession is much safer and regulated. If handled correctly, this new legislation will ensure prostitutes will be safe and have access to proper benefits and health checks. Another concern is that prostitution will be a burgeoning profession as a result of its new legality. However, these brothels have been in existence for decades, so allowing regulation, which would endorse these workplaces paying rent and being included under taxation, may be beneficial to all involved.
Nevertheless, this legislation is sure to prompt debate as to whether legalization is a governmental endorsement or not, and whether this should be a profession that should be lawful. The reality is this: Prostitution will occur whether it’s regulated or not. Since it’s an industry that shows no signs of ceasing, the only way to have some semblance of control over this issue will be to legalize it.
The Globe and Mail article further states that since the law will be enacted in a year, an appeal of the decision is likely. How the case unravels in the coming months could jeopardize the new sense of safety many will feel comes with regulation. Here is an opportunity not to promote prostitution as a viable career path, but to have control to eradicate trafficking of sex workers and mistreatment of prostitutes. Should these issues be resolved, legalization would be justified as a wise decision.
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