The history of sex work

Sex work is a divisive issue. Public debate often centres on morality, sexual norms, gender roles and migration. By contrast, less attention is paid to the social and economic conditions under which people earn a living through sex.

Historian Sarah Baumann examines the history of sex work from the perspectives of labour and gender history. In conversation with curator Marina Amstad, the guided tour provides an insight into the historical development of sex work, the changing way society views it, and the creation of the installation ‘Experiences Switzerland – Sex Work’. The discussion also addresses the questions and challenges that arise when presenting sex work in a museum context.