Prostitution Policy in the Nordic Region

May-Len Skilbrei, Fafo Institute for Applied International Studies, Norway and Charlotta Holmström, Malmö University, Sweden.

• Chapter 1 Introduction; Chapter 2 What is Prostitution Policy?; Chapter 3 The Nordic Context; Chapter 4 What is ‘Known’ about Prostitution in the Nordic Countries?; Chapter 5 Regulating Prostitution through Social Welfare Policies; Chapter 6 Regulating Prostitution through Criminal Justice Policies; Chapter 7 Nordic Prostitution Policies in Context;

’A major contribution to the research literature on prostitution in Nordic countries. The book insightfully highlights similarities and differences across the five countries in their sex markets and in recent prostitution policies, and identifies the key social forces responsible for shaping both public perceptions and state policies regarding prostitution. A groundbreaking, comprehensive analysis of Nordic debates on sex work using a unique, multi-national perspective.’ Ronald Weitzer, George Washington University, USA ’This book offers a much welcome critical and nuanced account of the Nordic model of prostitution regulation which challenges simplistic understandings and homogeneous approaches to the issue and its treatment across these similar yet distinctive jurisdictions. Empirically rich and analytically complex, this is a must-read for academics, policy makers and indeed anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of this fascinating area.’ Jane Scoular, University of Strathclyde, UK ’Skilbrei and Holmstrom are excellent at raising thoughtful questions... is targeted at the academics and researchers involved in the debates surrounding prostitution policy, and it is highly recommended to those who work in this area.’ LSE Review of Books 'This is an important book because it cuts through much of the contemporary rhetoric to provide (the first) comprehensive description of the last four decades of prostitution and prostitution policy development in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark. ... Prostitution Policy in the Nordic Region is an important book that dispels many of the myths and assumptions made in this country about the benefits of criminalizing the purchase of sex: the biggest being that criminalizing the purchase of sex produces anything other than tighter controls on sex working women. ... this book is a must read for anyone (student, academic, policy-maker) with a serious interest in prostitution policy reform.' Theoretical Criminolog