Sex and the law

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Sex and the law deals with the regulation by law of human sexual activity. Sex laws vary from one place or jurisdiction to another, and have varied over time, and unlawful sexual acts are also called sex crimes. Some laws regarding sexual activity are intended to protect one or all participants, while others may be enacted for religious or moral reasons.

Sexual activity and the age of consent[edit | edit source]

The age of consent is a legal concept that establishes the minimum age at which a person is considered to be legally competent to consent to sexual acts. The age of consent varies widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, though it is generally between 16 and 18 years of age. The laws regarding the age of consent can also vary depending on the type of sexual act, the gender of the participants, or other restrictions such as abuse of a position of trust.

Sex work and the law[edit | edit source]

Sex work is a term used to refer to all aspects of the lawful and unlawful sex industries around the world. This includes various forms of prostitution, pornography, and erotic entertainment. The legal status of sex work is one of the most significant ways in which societies regulate and control sex and sexuality.

Laws against sexual violence[edit | edit source]

Sexual violence is a serious public health and human rights problem with both short and long-term consequences on women's physical, mental, and sexual and reproductive health. Laws against sexual violence, including rape laws, are intended to protect individuals from unwanted sexual acts. The definition of rape and the penalties for it vary by jurisdiction.

LGBTQ+ rights and the law[edit | edit source]

LGBTQ+ rights are civil rights that are fought for and secured by individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+). These rights may or may not be recognized by the law, and they may vary widely from one jurisdiction to another. LGBTQ+ rights can include, but are not limited to, the right to equality and non-discrimination, the right to marry and form a family, and the right to freedom of expression and assembly.

See also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD