Episode Summary
In this episode of Trust Your Voice, host Sylvie Legere sits down in Paris with Héma Sibi, Executive Director of CAP International (Coalition for the Abolition of Prostitution), as France marks ten years since its landmark 2016 law on prostitution. Héma explains how survivor voices, grassroots advocates, and cross-party allies challenged longstanding cultural attitudes and helped shift legal accountability from people in prostitution to those who purchase sexual acts.
Together, they unpack France's five-pillar approach: decriminalization of people in prostitution, exit pathways, prohibitions on sex buying and pimping, and education and prevention. They also examine what has changed over the past decade, the growing challenge of online sexual exploitation, and differing policy approaches across Europe. Drawing on CAP International's Last Girl First! research, Héma shares why women and girls facing poverty, discrimination, and displacement are especially vulnerable—and how communities and businesses can help create opportunities for survivors.
Act after listening:
Learn about France's approach. Explore how survivor support, legal accountability, and prevention work together to address sexual exploitation.
Listen to survivor voices. Seek out and support frontline and survivor-led organizations shaping policy and providing direct assistance.
Put your influence to work. Consider offering professional expertise, staff training, financial support, or employment opportunities in partnership with trusted organizations.
Share the conversation. Encourage discussions about how advocacy, cross-party coalitions, and community action can help protect vulnerable people.
Guest Bio
Héma Sibi is a human rights advocate with a background in international law whose work focuses on ending prostitution and trafficking for sexual exploitation. As Executive Director of CAP International, a coalition of 37 frontline and survivor-led organizations across 29 countries, she supports international advocacy, policy reform, and efforts to expand meaningful alternatives for those affected by exploitation.
Resources & Links
U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline — 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733
Content note: This episode discusses sexual exploitation and trafficking, including the exploitation of minors.