09.09.2025 19:00
Anna Kontula, a member of the Finnish Left Alliance Party, stated that she started working as a sex worker at the age of 16 due to both a quest for excitement and economic difficulties, and that she continued intermittently for 20 years.
Finnish Parliament member Anna Kontula revealed that she worked as a sex worker for many years before entering politics.
SHOCKING CONFESSION FROM A FINNISH MP
In an interview with Helsingin Sanomat, she stated that she is not ashamed of this experience; on the contrary, it was an important process that shaped her political stance. Kontula mentioned that her reasons for entering the profession at the age of 16 were both the pursuit of excitement and economic difficulties, describing it as "a sensible option for making a living."
PARTICIPATED IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A UNION REPRESENTING SEX WORKERS
Kontula, who noted that she worked as a sex worker intermittently for about 20 years, gradually became an active advocate in this field. In 2002, she participated in the establishment of the union SALLI, which represents sex workers, and wrote articles questioning the existing public perceptions about the sector. She evaluated Finland's 2006 law that partially banned the purchase of sex as "a partial success" in terms of protecting victims of human trafficking. Kontula, who has been in parliament since 2011, continues to advocate for the rights of sex workers.
WILL NOT RUN AGAIN
Kontula explained that the reason for sharing her past as a sex worker was to contribute to societal discussions on the topic, and she also stated that she would not run for office again. The Finnish MP expressed that she has received training to become a social services specialist and has provided education on safe sex.
CRITICISMS RAISED
Kontula's statements faced some criticisms. Legal psychologist Pia Puolakka found the definition of sex work as "a normal profession" concerning. Puolakka argued that sex work would not make society freer or fairer, emphasizing that the state should ensure that no one has to sell their privacy.
PROSTITUTION IS PARTIALLY LEGAL IN FINLAND
In Finland, prostitution is considered legal under certain conditions. Kontula was not yet of legal age when she started sex work, but at that time, it was not against the law. The law that came into effect in 2006 prohibited the purchase of sex from minors, victims of human trafficking, or those working through intermediaries.