KZN govt supports decriminalisation of sex work - premier
KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says only by fast-tracking the decriminalisation of sex work can dignity be afforded to those making a living through the sector.
She was addressing those gathered at a sex workers symposium in Pietermaritzburg on Friday.
"The symposium also noted numerous cases where sex workers are discriminated against, arbitrarily arrested and abused by SAPS members, and resolved that members of the SAPS be held accountable for all misconduct and abuse," said Dube-Ncube.
Dube-Ncube said the move to change the legislation is also in line with findings by Human Rights Watch that criminalising consensual acts is incompatible to human rights and personal autonomy.
"The government of KwaZulu-Natal fully supports the decriminalisation process as it will minimise human rights violations, improve access to healthcare and reproductive rights, and lead to compliance with labour rights legislation."
