Sex work refers to the practice of engaging in sexual activities for reward. It involves the exchange of labour for an agreed-upon amount of money, goods or services.
Trafficking, on the other hand, refers to the movement of people, against their will, for purposes of exploitation that may include sexual exploitation.
The difference between sex work and trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation is that sex work reflects an individual’s decision to engage in a sexual transaction, while exploitation through trafficking occurs against the will of the victim.
Difficult circumstances may affect an individual’s choice to take on sex work, and in some cases sex work may be deemed a difficult but necessary means to make a living.
Nevertheless, sex work reflects a conscious choice by the individual. In the case of trafficking, a third party effectively forces a man, woman or child into exploitative circumstances.