Journalist Helena Björk has written a book that examines in detail the impact of the Sex Purchase Act in Sweden. Through contributions from researchers, opinion leaders, politicians, counselors, and people with experience in prostitution, she highlights critical flaws in the support systems for those exploited in prostitution. Read Robert Schenck’s review for more insights.
Socialt oacceptabelt
by Helena Björk
Bokförlaget Atlas, Stockholm, 2023
A clear message runs throughout Helena Björk’s investigative book Socialt oacceptabelt (Eng. Socially Unacceptable): the 1999 Sex Purchase Act was designed to rest on two pillars—the criminal and the social—but the social measures have been severely inadequate. People involved in prostitution in Sweden do not receive the support and assistance they need.
The Mikamottagningen clinics and Evonhuset stand out as exceptions—safe havens where individuals involved in prostitution are met with nonjudgmental care by experienced counselors. Unfortunately, these services are almost exclusively located in major cities and are far from accessible to everyone in need. Within public institutions, such as the justice system and healthcare, individuals involved in prostitution often encounter prejudice and ignorance. Those from third countries (outside the EU) can even be deported for “dishonest means of livelihood,” with no understanding or social support provided. Moreover, the Tidö Agreement’s use of the term “lack of good conduct,” citing prostitution as an example, has only reinforced stereotypes and further confused the question of accountability. After all, it is the purchase of sex that is deemed unacceptable under Swedish law. Individuals involved in prostitution are not violating the law.
From the very beginning, in the foreword, the author asserts:
“The aim was to create a sharp tool against sex buyers—and a moral compass to guide national unity. Everyone was supposed to agree that buying sex is unacceptable. But above all, the law was intended as a complement. Social support for those selling sex and preventative efforts were to be managed by social services. Politicians agreed on this. Organizations agreed on this. And those selling sex agreed to this.
But no one seemed to talk about it. I am asking new questions.
Have the politicians laid the groundwork? Is care and support available across the country? Is anyone taking responsibility at the municipal level? Are there sufficient funds? What safety net is in place for all foreign nationals selling sex in Sweden?
Let me reveal that the answers are far from impressive.”
Helena Björk does not take a position on the issue of the Sex Purchase Act. The book is described as a reportage, and Björk argues that what she refers to as the “polarization” of the debate has obstructed political and societal commitment to providing social support for individuals in prostitution. However, Björk quotes Margot Wallström, a strong advocate of the Sex Purchase Act, who simultaneously calls for improvements in social support:
“It requires engagement with those who are victims and vulnerable. That’s why it’s time for us to review what needs to be done to modernize and update. Look at France, which has now implemented the legislation—what do they have that we didn’t at the time? Above all, it’s the support for those who are exploited and the preventative measures. You need to address the entire chain.”
Wallström thus sees no contradiction in supporting the Sex Purchase Act while also advocating for enhanced social interventions. Similarly, organizations like RealStars believe that the Sex Purchase Act should be complemented with exit programs and other social support measures.
Throughout the book, the author weaves in stories and interviews with three women involved in prostitution—Julia, Danielle, and Jasmine. This adds variation, crucial insights, and a human perspective from the viewpoint of those most affected. Their stories reveal the forces driving prostitution, which I have highlighted in my previous reviews on the RealStars website: poverty, urgent financial needs, mental health struggles, substance dependency, childhood trauma, PTSD, and more.
In addition to the narratives of the three women, the book incorporates a variety of perspectives from researchers, politicians, social commentators, counselors, and others. This offers a thorough and multifaceted account of the developments over recent decades. However, the contrasting viewpoints at times make the reading experience feel somewhat fragmented.
The author also includes a frequently overlooked global societal perspective on the causes of prostitution: “A society free from prostitution is not only about reducing demand. It is also about not having to sell sex or being forced into it. Examples of this become evident as soon as living conditions deteriorate—a pandemic, a war.”
Björk further emphasizes the importance of recognizing that the categories of individuals vulnerable to sexual exploitation have shifted over time. In particular, children and young people, often through social media, have become a significant group that must be accounted for in future preventative and social measures.
For RealStars readers, Helena Björk’s core message is crucial: Sweden needs to improve its support for individuals exploited in prostitution and enhance its legal processes to ensure they receive the help and respect they need. It is evident that one of the primary goals of the Sex Purchase Act has yet to be achieved.
However, as a RealStars reader, it is equally important to emphasize that decriminalizing prostitution fuels a horrific sex industry and contributes to a society that normalizes appalling standards (Germany being a prime example). I suspect Helena Björk chose not to take a stance on the criminalization of sex purchases to avoid the book becoming overshadowed by what she calls a polarized debate. However, this risks diminishing the central role the Sex Purchase Act plays in a national policy on prostitution and trafficking.
The book provides no information about the author, her background, or her previous work—a clear shortcoming. On the publisher’s website, however, it states
“Helena Björk (born 1985) is a journalist based in Stockholm. Her areas of expertise include sexual politics and feminist issues.
Socialt oacceptabelt – a reportage on Swedish prostitution policy is her first book and was published in the spring of 2023 by Bokförlaget Atlas.”
The book can be purchased here: https://www.adlibris.com/se/bok/socialt-oacceptabelt-ett-reportage-om-svensk-prostitutionspolitik-9789174450439?gclid=CjwKCAjwsKqoBhBPEiwALrrqiH4HJq_bSCMqKm0dDbl3jQbAMHoNlMFwDyVxwWFAw00fZOL6PWmkkhoCCrMQAvD_BwE