THINK Seminar - The Nordic Model: Feminist or Oppressive?

Discuss the topic and plan questions ahead of the big debate.

In 1999, Sweden became the first country to adopt what has since been called the Nordic model, making it illegal to purchase sex while decriminalising the sellers. The Nordic model has since been adopted by Norway, Iceland, Northern Ireland, Canada, France, Ireland, and most recently, Israel. It is still a controversial law, however, with critics saying it drives prostitution underground, harming sex workers by making their jobs more dangerous. In favour of the model, proponents point to reduced demand and a reduction in trafficking and grooming. Norway introduced the Nordic model in 2009, and the question of whether the UK should follow suit is very much alive. In this THINK debate, we'll hear from two Norwegians with different views on both the effects and merits of the law.

The event will take place via Zoom, register in advance to take part.

THINK seminars are only open to University of Essex students. 

THINK Seminars form part of the Big Essex Award