A bill is being considered in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) to decriminalize pornographic content.

This initiative has already garnered public support in 2022. The issue of pornographic content has been actively discussed before. It is one of many areas that corrupt law enforcement officers have actively abused.

 

So, what changes are being proposed?

• Review of articles 301 (import, production, and distribution of pornography) and 302 (organization of “places of debauchery”) of the Criminal Code.

• Punishment under Article 301 will only apply to the distribution of pornography without the consent of the person depicted or to the distribution of pornography among minors.

• Article 302 is proposed to be abolished entirely.

• The changes will not affect child pornography.

 

What are the potential consequences of this initiative?

1. Social: Legalization may lead to changes in social norms, reduced stigma, and improved educational programs on sexual education.

2. Economic: Legalization can promote the creation of new jobs, increase tax revenues, and attract foreign investments.

3. Protection of participants’ rights: Legalization can better protect the rights and safety of individuals who create pornographic content.

 

After the possible abolition of the Criminal Code articles related to pornography, the work of Ukrainian law enforcement agencies may change as follows:

• Reduction in the number of cases: Law enforcement agencies will consider fewer cases related to violations of these articles, freeing up resources for other tasks.

• Change in priorities: Law enforcement can redirect their efforts to other types of crimes, such as child pornography or human trafficking, which remain illegal.

• Educational programs: There may be a need for training programs for law enforcement to understand the new changes in the law and how to apply them.

• Cooperation with the public: Law enforcement agencies may cooperate with the people and organizations to ensure the safety and rights of individuals working in the pornographic industry.

• Increased responsibility: While some actions may become legal, law enforcement will still monitor compliance with other laws, such as copyright protection or the prohibition of distributing content without the person’s consent.

 

The initiative to legalize pornography in Ukraine can help protect the rights of individuals involved in the creation of pornographic content in the following ways:

• Legitimization of the profession: Legalization can reduce the stigma associated with working in the pornographic industry, allowing individuals to openly discuss their work and defend their rights.

• Protection from exploitation: Legislative regulation can set safety standards and ensure fair pay.

• Right to privacy: Legalization can protect the privacy rights of individuals involved in content creation, prohibiting the distribution of materials without their consent.

• Access to legal assistance: Individuals working in this field can go to court in case of violation of their rights without fear of criminal prosecution.

• Educational and medical programs: Legalization can promote the development of educational and medical programs for individuals working in the pornographic industry, especially on sexual health issues.

 

The initiative to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine opens new horizons for societal development. But most importantly, it prevents law enforcement officers from abusing their powers. Now, the state will not spend taxpayers’ money for police to watch porn online and find its creators. On the contrary, the budget will be replenished thanks to revenues from the new industry.