South Africa: Decriminalise Sex Work Bill Back in Parliament Years Later
South Africa's government is moving forward with a draft bill to decriminalize sex work, which is expected to reach Parliament by 2027. Advocates argue the legislation is essential to protect sex workers from violence, stigma, and legal vulnerability.
Why it matters
The bill represents a significant shift in human rights and labor policy, addressing the safety and legal status of a marginalized workforce.
SWEAT and Asijiki Coalition welcome some progress made by government
The long-awaited draft sex work decriminalisation bill will return to Parliament for consideration, three years after it was sent back to be redrafted.
Department of Justice spokesperson Samuel Modipane revealed to GroundUp that the draft bill will be sent to Cabinet for a decision "on policy issues" and to "request approval" to put the bill out for public comment.
After years of consultations, the draft Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill of 2022, which includes decriminalising sex work, was withdrawn to be redrafted in 2023.
In June 2025, SWEAT called on the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to prioritise the "long-delayed" bill.
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