Calls for repeal of new prostitution laws

More than 60 organizations from across Canada are calling for non-enforcement and repeal of new prostitution laws that came into effect Saturday.

The new law criminalizes the advertising and purchase of sex.

Groups, which include the Canadian Aids Society, John Howard Society, and Native Women’s Resource Centre want the new law repealed and advocate for the full decriminalization of sex work in Canada.

The sweeping new changes to the way prostitution is regulated in Canada follow a supreme court decision last year that found the old laws violated the rights of prostitutes.