A discourse on the decriminalization of prostitution in foreign countries: Its implication on the Philippine criminal system

Abstract

This study aimed to conduct a content analysis of the effectiveness of legalization or decriminalization of prostitution and criminalization of all participants in the sex trade. A non-experimental and qualitative content analysis was used as research design and in gathering the data for this study. The study focused on the prostitution laws of Sweden, Netherlands and Thailand. The purposive samples were all studies which surveyed and gauged the effectiveness of the application of the respective prostitution policies of the governments of Sweden, Netherlands and Thailand. The areas examined were whether legalization and/or criminalization of prostitution decreased the incidence of prostitution in the countries involved, and whether the implementation of the prostitution regimes gave rise to adverse societal effects. Data gathered were analyzed and interpreted on the basis of the specific objectives in the preceding statement, further taking into account the assumptions that legalization would decrease the incidence of prostitution, that it would eliminate abuse and exploitation of women, and that it enhance would women's choices.