Sweden has passed a groundbreaking law banning remote sex acts influenced by the buyer, directly targeting platforms like OnlyFans. The new legislation, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, marks the first time a Western country has adopted such sweeping restrictions on online sex work, citing the need to combat sexual exploitation.
Sweden expands the Nordic model to the digital sphere
The Swedish parliament (Riksdagen) approved the bill on May 21, extending the so-called “Nordic model” to digital platforms. Under this model, the purchase of sexual services is criminalized, but not the selling of them—intended to protect sex workers while penalizing demand. Originally introduced in 1999, the model has influenced legislation in Norway, Iceland, and France.
This new digital application of the model renders it illegal to pay for a remote sexual act that is influenced or requested by the buyer. While pre-recorded, generic content—like standard photos and videos—remains legal, live-streamed performances and especially custom content tailored to individual client requests will now likely fall into the category of criminal activity.
Financial impact and concerns from sex workers
The law could deal a serious blow to the income of digital sex workers, many of whom rely on custom requests as their main source of revenue. These personalized interactions, often involving direct communication with clients, are now considered illegal transactions under the new regulation.
OnlyFans, which was directly referenced in the legislative text due to its dominance in the sector, had lobbied the Swedish government to amend the proposal but was unsuccessful. The platform claims it pays around 11 million EUR in taxes annually.
Critics say the law may push sex work underground
Criticism has come swiftly from advocates and organizations representing sex workers, who argue that the law will drive their work away from safer, regulated platforms and into more precarious and unregulated environments.
Yigit Aydin, from the European Sex Workers’ Rights Alliance, which represents over 100 organizations across Europe and Central Asia, warned that workers would lose the autonomy and safety provided by digital platforms: “They will no longer be able to work independently, set boundaries, or avoid the risks associated with in-person sex work.”
A potential template for other countries
The Swedish government justifies the law as a tool against the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, particularly women who may not be engaging in sex work voluntarily. It argues that targeting the buyer is the most effective way to reduce demand and, by extension, exploitation.
Observers note that other countries are closely watching Sweden’s move. As happened two decades ago with the original Nordic model, this legislation could serve as a blueprint for broader regulation of online sex work in other Western jurisdictions.
While hailed by some as a progressive step toward digital safety and dignity, others see it as a misguided measure that threatens the livelihoods and rights of independent workers operating online.
