Sweden is advancing legislation that would criminalize the purchase of sexual content on platforms like OnlyFans, aligning digital transactions with existing prostitution laws. The proposed bill aims to categorize payments for online sexual acts as criminal offenses, similar to in-person sex purchases.
The legislative proposal, detailed in the Swedish government’s 2023 report (SOU 2023:80), seeks to amend Sections 11 and 12 of the Swedish Criminal Code. These amendments would extend criminal liability to individuals who induce or financially exploit others to perform sexual acts for payment, including remote performances such as cam shows. The report emphasizes that the nature of the relationship between parties—whether casual or more permanent—should not exempt such transactions from legal scrutiny.
Swedish authorities have expressed concerns about the potential for platforms like OnlyFans to serve as gateways to prostitution. The proposed legislation has sparked a debate within Sweden, with some viewing it as a necessary step to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, while others raise concerns about freedom of expression and the potential for overreach. The bill’s supporters argue that it addresses the evolving landscape of sex work in the digital age, ensuring that legal frameworks keep pace with technological advancements.
As Sweden continues to deliberate on this bill, the outcome could set a precedent for how other nations address online sex work and the responsibilities of digital platforms in regulating content.
