The story of Alice’s entry into sex work is one of necessity and limited options. At just 17 years old, she was let go from her job at a call center, with no CV to speak of and few prospects for employment. Influenced by a friend who had found financial success in the sex industry, Alice made the decision to follow a similar path. Fast forward to her 30s, and Alice still engages in sex work, although she has managed to juggle it with other job opportunities. However, proposed changes to the law in Scotland have left her feeling incredibly unsafe.
The Alba MSP, Ash Regan, is advocating for a new bill that would criminalize paying for sexual services, commonly known as the “Nordic Model.” Regan believes that by targeting the demand for prostitution, particularly from men, women can be better protected. Her argument centers on the idea that purchasing sexual access to another person is a form of violence. Currently, paying for sex is not illegal in Scotland, although related activities like managing a brothel or soliciting sex are against the law.
Regan’s proposals have sparked a divide among those advocating for the safety of sex workers. Alice highlights how the internet has revolutionized the industry, allowing workers like herself to screen potential clients for safety. However, she fears that criminalizing buying sex would drive away the “good clients” who respect boundaries, leaving only those who disregard the law and potentially pose a greater risk. Alice worries that the proposed legislation would make it harder to vet clients and ultimately put her in a more perilous position.
Despite opposition and apprehension from individuals like Alice, Regan is resolute in her mission to eradicate commercial sexual exploitation by targeting the demand for paid sex. With the support of various women’s groups, Regan aims to confront the root causes of commodifying human beings through her bill. The debate around legislating sex work is complex and contentious, with different factions presenting their own perspectives on the issue. The fate of Regan’s bill in the Scottish political landscape remains uncertain, with the looming 2026 election potentially shaping its future
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