The Swedish government has ignited a heated public debate after considering a ban on purchasing content on OnlyFans, a popular online platform widely used for sharing adult videos. According to the Swedish authorities, paying for pornographic content online could soon become illegal and punishable by imprisonment, aligning the practice with existing laws against prostitution.
Online sex purchases seen as prostitution by authorities
Sweden, known for its strict stance on sex purchases, currently prohibits buying sexual services. Now, the Government argues that platforms like OnlyFans should be subject to similar regulations. Swedish police have pointed out that such platforms can lead vulnerable youth into prostitution.
“Sexual activities in exchange for payment are increasingly happening online, and according to police reports, platforms like OnlyFans gradually draw children and young people into prostitution,” states the Government’s official release.
NGOs endorse the government’s initiative
Organizations involved in supporting women escaping prostitution and human trafficking have praised the proposal, highlighting the significance of addressing digital exploitation.
“This legislative proposal is a crucial step in the right direction. Many have underestimated digital violence, perceiving it as less severe than physical violence,” explained Megan Donevan, research director at Talita, an NGO supporting victims of trafficking and exploitation, to TV4. Talita’s research indicates that many online sex workers have histories of childhood sexual abuse and experiences of physical prostitution.
OnlyFans creators oppose the ban
The proposal, however, faces strong opposition from OnlyFans creators. They argue the Swedish government misunderstands their work, viewing the proposal as a potential threat to their safety and independence.
“I was initially shocked and concerned,” said Sanne Zentio, a content creator on OnlyFans. “It feels as if politicians don’t truly understand our digital work. Many of us operate independently, safely, and legally. This ban risks harming individuals who have left traditional sex work environments in favor of safer, controlled spaces,” she added to TV4.
Another creator, Cina Pödenphant, expressed her frustration to SVT, calling OnlyFans her “safe place” where she can work without direct physical interactions. “I pay taxes and VAT and feel secure and happy on OnlyFans,” she explained.
OnlyFans’ rapid growth and controversies
OnlyFans, founded in 2016, experienced rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Business Insider, the platform boasts over four million content creators and approximately 300 million subscribers worldwide. Creators receive 80% of their earnings, with the company retaining the remaining 20%.
Despite its popularity, OnlyFans has faced criticism over incidents involving underage users uploading explicit content and cases of revenge pornography. Estimates suggest around 84% of OnlyFans creators are women, although the company has not officially disclosed demographic details.
The debate in Sweden underscores the complex balance governments face when attempting to regulate digital spaces to protect vulnerable populations, while also considering the autonomy and rights of adult creators who rely on these platforms for their livelihoods.
