Landmark prostitution ruling challenged

A landmark court ruling that struck down three anti-prostitution laws is being challenged by the government this week. Ontario Superior Court Justice Susan Himel struck down three provisions in Canadian law relating to prostitution last year. Himel ruled the laws contravened the sex workers’ rights to safety and liberty. The ruling opened the door to decriminalization of the industry.

However, the federal and Ontario governments are appealing the decision to a five-justice panel this week. The government argues that it is the practice of an illegal trade, and not the anti-prostitution provisions, that is dangerous. They say that sex workers should have no expectation of security in an illegal trade. 

The appeal is subject to close watch, as the decision will set a precedent for cases elsewhere in the ountry. The panel is expected to deliver a verdict in the next six to twelve months.