If you’re curious about prostitution, you probably have questions about numbers, laws, and everyday realities. Below you’ll find straightforward answers that cut through the noise. No jargon, just the facts you can use right away.
Recent research estimates that around 42 million people worldwide are involved in some form of sex work. That’s roughly 0.5% of the global adult population. The biggest clusters appear in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Latin America, where economic pressure and limited job options drive many into the trade.
Age matters too. About 60% of sex workers are under 30, and a growing share—close to 20%—are under 18, which raises serious protection concerns. In countries that track it, the average daily earnings hover between $30 and $120, but most earn far less after taxes, agency fees, and safety costs.
Legal approaches differ wildly. In places like the Netherlands and New Zealand, sex work is fully de‑criminalised, meaning workers can access health services and report violence without fear. Those countries also report lower rates of abuse and higher earnings for workers.
Contrast that with nations that criminalise both sellers and buyers, such as many US states and parts of Eastern Europe. Here, arrests are common, and hidden markets thrive, making it harder for health officials to reach workers. In 2025, at least 12 countries introduced stricter penalties for buyers, hoping to curb demand, but the data shows mixed results.
Some regions sit in the middle with the “Nordic model”: selling is legal, buying is penalised. Sweden, Norway, and Iceland use this system, claiming it protects workers while deterring clients. Critics argue it pushes transactions underground, increasing risky encounters.
What does this mean for you? If you travel, always check the local law. Ignorance won’t protect you from fines or arrest. Most major cities publish clear guidelines on escort sites, so a quick search can save trouble.
Beyond the law, safety is a top priority. Reliable workers use vetted platforms, share real‑time location with friends, and have a clear exit plan. Clients who respect boundaries and pay upfront reduce the chance of conflict. Mutual respect is the simplest safety net.
Health-wise, condom use remains the gold standard. Global health groups report that consistent condom usage cuts STI transmission by over 80%. Yet in places where sex work is hidden, condom negotiation drops dramatically. Supporting de‑criminalisation helps workers demand safe practices.
Finally, the social stigma attached to prostitution still hurts. Many workers face discrimination in housing, banking, and healthcare. Advocacy groups are fighting for anti‑discrimination laws, but progress is uneven. Knowing the facts lets you speak up intelligently and support policies that actually help workers.
Bottom line: prostitution isn’t a monolith. It’s shaped by economics, law, and culture. By understanding the numbers, the legal context, and the everyday challenges, you’re better equipped to stay safe, be respectful, and make informed choices.
Step inside the day-to-day world of sex work in 2025: gritty realities, unique facts, legal updates, and practical tips for anyone curious about the industry.
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