When we talk about the progress of various industries and think of ways to improve them, we often ignore the sex industry. It is always hidden in the background. But it’s a huge industry and it’s growing.

In Canada, cooperatives like WCCSIP, are working toward improving the condition. They have come up with the ‘Leading the Way’ project to provide a better work environment for the sex workers in Canada.

Technology has a great impact on this industry. As this industry is growing despite the government restrictions, here are some trends you should know about.

Decriminalization of sex work

In many countries, sex works are criminalized. That means it’s illegal to do any kind of sex business. People cannot offer sex for money and the operations of brothels are stopped. However, these laws don’t affect the sex industry. The people running such businesses are still working undercover and there is high demand for these services as well.

This situation is leading to health hazards. It is also making the work environment unsafe for the sex workers. There is no regulation or law concerning the worker’s health or the work environment like the other occupations. So, if the sex work is decriminalized, there will be proper regulations in place to preserve the rights of the sex workers.

High demand for pornography

We live in a world where we cannot imagine a world without pornography. According to a recent study, pornography makes for 30% of the Internet traffic. Pornography constitutes billions of dollars to US economy. A similar picture is seen in other countries as well.

Technology will play an important role

Sex offerings will not be limited to having sex with a sex worker. The augmented reality and robotics will provide more service options to clients. People can now have virtual sex over the Internet. There are many online dating and pornographic sites that allow virtual sex.

Sex will be more intimate

People like the ‘girlfriend experience’ rather than the ‘porn-star’ experience. So, the sex workers will give more personalized services to make the relationship more intimate. The sex worker may provide gifts, cards, etc. to make the experience more real and intimate.

Better business

A sex worker will not have to stand on the streets to get clients. They can have their own websites and attract clients through their own platform. This way they can cut off the intermediary and have better control of their business.

Involvement of mainstream organizations

The mainstream organizations will give importance to the role the sex industry plays in the economy of the country. They will recognize the potential of this industry to bring in revenue. PETA, for example, launched a .xxx site for promoting vegetarianism.  Sony Entertainment also partnered with Playboy to launch PlayStation Vita.

In many countries, the sex industry accounts for a significant portion of the country’s revenue. These trends indicate that the industry will grow and become like any other business. So, they won’t operate undercover anymore and there will be strict regulations in place to monitor the safety of the sex workers.

The sex trade is a huge business. It earns a lot of revenue every year. Though some women find it a very lucrative business, many women come here not as a choice. They are often forced to work here due to circumstances. Here are the major reasons why women join the sex trade.

Unemployment

The rate of unemployment is increasing. Many women are forced to join this trade as they cannot find a suitable job to run the family. There are many single mothers who have to raise their children and this might become their only option. Women also become sex workers to bear their daily expense and to improve their income level.

Extra money

Many teenagers join prostitution to pay for their tuition fees. They often leave the industry after they save a considerable amount of money. Many see prostitution as a way to pass through difficult financial times, like getting settled after a divorce or paying for loans, etc.

Not being educated

Many girls leave school or college very early due to various reasons. Being not very educated leaves them with fewer career options. Prostitution is a profession where you don’t need much education or skill. You can work as a sex worker only if you have the looks and body.

Child abuse

There have been many cases where girls join prostitution as a result of child abuse. Due to a difficult childhood, their mental orientation becomes abnormal and they join prostitution. Sometimes, the parents force them to join this trade.

Drug

People join this industry by earning money to pay for their drugs. Those who are drug addicted find it difficult to continue a decent job. They often get fired for their addiction and prostitution is the only way they can get money to buy drugs.

Curiosity

Many people join prostitution out of sexual curiosity. They think of it as a fantasy world where they can explore their sexuality. They find this world glamorous. They like dressing up and attracting men. They are often happy to be prostitutes.

Sex trafficking

Sex trafficking is a crime and many young girls are becoming victims of it. They have to join prostitution against their will. Even girls as young as ten years old are trafficked from other countries and are forced to join this business. This is one of the reasons why prostitution is illegal in most countries. It is considered as exploitation of women.

Whatever the reason people get into prostitution, you have to realize that it’s a big business. So, it is important to ensure good working condition and safe environment for the sex workers.

People should be educated about the sexually transmitted diseases and the importance of practicing safe sex. Sex trafficking should be stopped and young girls should be given the opportunity to lead a good life.