The bill includes the decriminalisation of sex work.  

"Sex work is driven by a complex intersection of social and economic factors in which poverty, unemployment and inequality are key drivers,“ Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said on Friday.

Lamola provided an update on the government’s effort to decriminalise sex work at a briefing in Pretoria.

He said the bill contains a number of measures, including an onus on the justice system, to provide protection, safety and justice for survivors of gender-based violence, and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. 

"One of the key activities under Pillar 3 is ‘finalisation of the legislative process to decriminalise sex work – fast-tracking and promulgation’. This follows the view that the ongoing criminalisation of sex work contributes to GBVF as it leaves sex workers unprotected by the law, unable to exercise their rights as citizens and open to abuse generally, not least when they approach state facilities for assistance.”

Lamola explained that municipal bylaws would provide direction on where sex work would be allowed.

"With regards to regulation, municipal bylaws would still be able to provide where solicitation in public spaces may or may not take place. For example, prohibiting the selling of sex in certain areas. This is similar to the prohibition on the location of taverns and shebeens, where there can be restrictions imposed to prohibit trade in residential neighbourhoods, near schools and/or religious buildings.”

Deputy Justice Minister John Jeffery says the objections of various religious organisations will also need to be taken into account.

"There are people who oppose decriminalisation, specifically religious leaders. We have had an engagement through the South African Council of Churches with religious leaders, as this concerns issues of God’s law.

“Adultery is no longer a crime in society and hasn't been for some time. So, we need to look at the religious aspect and versus the reality aspect of what is happening in the country and what has been happening for some time.”

Jacaranda News