When something is illegal, or socially unacceptable, it is forced to lurk in the shadows. The centuries-old sex industry is no exception, and it’s time to allow it to happen above board, in the light of day. When legalized and destigmatized, the private activities of consenting adults can be conducted safely and sanely.

Many prominent groups have called for the decriminalization or legalization of sex work, including the World Health Organization, UN Women, the Global Commission on HIV and the Law, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, and Human Rights Watch. Based on what we already know about the consequences of prohibition, this should come as no surprise.

The prohibition of anything drives demand, violence, and corruption

Alcohol and marijuana use are good examples of how prohibition fails to do any of the things it promises to do.

The prohibition of alcohol in the United States between 1920 and 1933 has been universally considered a failure. During this period, the rates of arrest for murder, drunken disorderly conduct, and drunk driving all climbed quickly and dramatically. Toxic homebrews were sold; blinding, paralyzing, and killing thousands of people.

The prices of spirits rose 24%, and beer 700%. This led to rampant organized crime. Al Capone was making 60 million dollars in untaxed income annually. Many public officials were arrested for taking bribes related to alcohol trafficking. The government even started deliberately poisoning alcohol.

The gradual legalization of marijuana in the United States is a more visible and familiar reminder of the ineffectiveness of prohibition.

Since the legalization of marijuana in Colorado in 2014, a study found many positive consequences. DUI rates went down, youth usage rates went down; even high school graduation rates increased. Over 1 billion in tax revenue was generated by legal marijuana sales, funding youth and public health programs. Oregon saw a 10% drop in violent crime and 70 million in state revenue.