Abstract

In this episode, we speak with Dr Nick Cowen and Dr Rachela Colosi about the impact of online platforms on the sex work industry. In society, sex work, and the sex work industry, is often stigmatised, subject to various sanctions, or illegal in many jurisdictions.

While sex work has historically been contended on moral grounds, contemporary arguments against sex work are concerned with preventing exploitation and human trafficking. As a stigmatised and minority profession, sex workers have adopted various strategies in relation to risk and safety, which includes the use of online platforms for work purposes.

The sociological research discussed in this podcast episode draws from narratives of sex workers and evaluates how the regulation of online platforms corresponds with the interests of sex workers.