Sweden Tightens Sex Purchase Laws, Boosting Support Services for Offenders

Sweden has strengthened its legal framework criminalizing the purchase of sexual services, expanding prohibitions to include online transactions such as video calls and platforms like OnlyFans. Since July 2025, the law mandates at least conditional imprisonment for offenders, a measure intended to serve as a stronger deterrent.

This legislative update has significantly influenced social services, particularly the Stockholm-based unit Kast, which supports individuals struggling with problematic pornography use and those who have purchased sexual services. Hanna Sjöstedt, a Kast staff member, noted a marked increase in young men seeking help preemptively, illustrating the law's preventative effect.

Kast handles between 100 and 300 cases annually, primarily involving men who feel trapped in unhealthy behaviors. The unit collaborates closely with police, who refer individuals caught buying sex to Kast for assistance. Support extends not only to those directly affected but also to their relatives, often facilitating meaningful behavioral change.

Sjöstedt emphasized that Kast's approach does not shame offenders but encourages responsibility and addresses the deep-rooted issues developed over many years. The distinction between guilt and shame, she said, is critical in aiding recovery from such behaviors.

These developments reflect Sweden’s comprehensive strategy combining legal reform with preventative and rehabilitative support to curb illegal sex purchases and associated harms.