Breslin stated that this model is the only way to stop the human rights violations commonly associated with the sex trade. By rejecting the challenge, the court has endorsed a legal approach designed to safeguard individuals from the extreme abuses that can occur in prostitution. This decision also clearly itution lawshowed the importance of laws to prioritize human rights and reduce exploitation and trafficking.
It was considered a positive step that France decided to introduce the legislative model in 2016. The same model was followed by Ireland in 2017. The purpose of this law is to address the issue of sex trafficking which is one of the major global concerns. Many lobbying groups that support sex trading opposed this law. Despite this opposition, the law remained intact. The outcome is a great victory for all those who survived these crimes for many years.
It reinforces the commitment to protecting individuals from sexual exploitation and supports their fight for justice. For those whose lives have been severely impacted by prostitution and trafficking, this legal success offers hope and validation. It demonstrates that efforts to combat these abuses are making a real difference and providing a sense of relief and support to those affected around the world.
The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has made an important decision, which coincides with the ongoing review of Ireland’s sex trade laws by the Department of Justice. Under the current law, specifically the Sexual Offences Act 2017, sex workers are not committing a crime by offering their services. However, according to law, it is illegal to pay for sexual activity. It includes paying money for sex with a sex worker or trafficked person. This action aims to reduce the paid demand for sexual activity.
After every 3 years, it is important to review the law. This reviewing process is important to know how well the model is working. The guideline that should be followed to review the law was shared in July 2020. It explains what points will be focussed during the reviewing process. This review is important because it will help decide if the current laws are working or if they need to be changed.
The main focus of the review is to find the answer to how the act impacts the well-being and welfare of those who engage in sex work. This is one of the important factors to consider as the impacts of the legislation could significantly influence their lives. At the start of 2024, Justice Minister Helen McEntee explored, in response to a question posed by Independent TD Catherine Connolly, that the Department of Justice plans to complete this review internally.
The department decided to proceed with the review internally. Even though they had advertised for a new lead researcher last fall after Maura Butler, the original lead, left the project in the summer. This change made many people in wonder whether the research would be fair and consistent. However, the Department of Justice assured the Irish examiner that all data is reviewed by their team thoroughly. Hopefully, this review will be complete the third quarter of the year.
