Global threats, local options, personal risk: Dimensions of migrant sex work in Europe

Abstract

The middle ground of risk is less well developed than broader considerations at policy level and fine-tuned individual perception and behaviour at micro level. The sex industry in particular is increasingly portrayed as a global phenomenon and, alternatively, within the context of interpersonal relationships. This article explores a middle-level analysis of threats and risk-taking behaviour. It draws attention to important distinctions between danger, risk and no risk and locates these in a discussion of sex work among migrant women in mainland Europe. The work of a non-governmental foundation, TAMPEP, in supporting migrant sex workers in managing the range of personal risks they encounter, is outlined. Two findings are underlined: that a sense of control over threat is prerequisite to dealing with risk; and that it is on the ground, in local context, that control must be and can be negotiated.

Keywords:

• Sex Work
• Local Context
• Personal Control
• Risk
• Migration