Chairperson, the topic we are debating this afternoon calls on all of us to co-operate and share responsibility in the global fight against human trafficking, among other things.
The United Nations definition of human trafficking basically equates with prostitution. Prostitution is harmful to the prostitutes themselves, their clients, and their families and society. In order to endure the multiple invasions of their bodies, prostitutes use alcohol and drugs to numb the assault on their consciences, dignity and bodily integrity.
They ACDP agrees with Doctors for Life, who said that the decriminalisation of prostitution only allows criminals and members of organised crime rings to become legitimate businessmen and to work hand in hand with the state in marketing women's bodies.
Prostitution is ultimately sexual slavery. And, like all forms of slavery, the goal should be to eliminate it, and not to make it legal. It is a fact that the legalisation of prostitution does not end abuse; it only makes abuse legal. It would be hypocritical for members of this House to talk about fighting against human trafficking, while they support calls from individuals and advocacy groups for prostitution to be decriminalised.
We oppose the decriminalisation of prostitution and support the care and restoration of prostitutes to a safe, decent and dignified life. There is ample scientific evidence that prostitution is an inherently harmful practice, and that the vast majority of people who are involved in it would leave if they could find alternatives. The emotional trauma of prostitution is the same, whether high class or low class, legal or illegal, in a brothel or a massage parlour, in a street club or in the street.
For these reasons, the ACDP urges members of this Parliament to co-operate and share the responsibility to fight against organised crime and, in particular, human trafficking that includes prostitution.