Why do we refer to sex work?

The expression sex work includes the word “work” and clearly indicates that it is an economic activity.
The term “sex work” was coined by Carol Leigh in 1978, and was intended to help reduce stigma and bring sex work closer to other service professions.

There are plenty of people working in the sex industry who also refer to themselves as “prostitutes”, with the aim of reclaiming terms that have been used with a negative connotation (such as “slut” or “whore”). However, many find it disrespectful and derogatory to be labelled as such by others.

The term “sex work” has not become established as a legal term in Switzerland, which is why XENIA also refers to “prostitution” in legal contexts.