Sammendrag
This thesis explores two facets of the situation in Malta regarding sex work: The contemporary public discourse and the landscape of existing services and their accessibility. Drawing upon ethnographic methods and theoretical frameworks from anthropology, the study analyses the present perspectives in the public debate and delves into the intricate layers of the social and political fabric of Malta and its implications for sex workers, migrants and stakeholders. Stakeholders, in this case, include all individuals and (non)-governmental institutions that have either influence on or interest in the topic at hand. Therefore, research participants comprised advocates, service providers and public officials from field such as policymaking, migration, health care and women’s rights. Taking a closer look at the sex work discourse and current landscape of existing services and challenges associated with them provides a compelling example for examining broader prominent phenomena within Malta, such as polarisation, xenophobia and structural shortcomings.