Žiga Sedevčič: The Fight for Sex Workers' Rights Between Tourism, Tradition, and Reality
Source: Glas Istre, Author: Bojan Žižović, Date: February 23, 2020, 06:00
Introduction
The interview in Glas Istre presents Žiga Sedevčič as one of the prominent names in the regional adult industry – a porn actor, director, producer, and advocate for sex workers' rights. The conversation opens topics that go beyond provocative headlines: from the relationship between tourism and sex work to the question of registering activities, union representation, and the fight against exploitation.
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Tourism and Sex Work: An Open Secret
In the interview, Sedevčič highlights a connection that is rarely spoken about directly: where there is tourism, there is also sex work. According to him, Croatia has a long tradition of gigolos – in local jargon 'galebovi' (seagulls) – which is part of the collective memory and tourist reality of the Adriatic. It is a phenomenon that is not specific to one country, but a universal dynamic of tourist areas.
This finding is not a value judgment, but a description of reality, which in his opinion is better to regulate than to push into a gray zone.
Representation Instead of Silence
As president of the Dobra Družba organization, Sedevčič explains that they advocate for the registration of sex work where legislation allows it, and for a clear distinction between voluntary work and coercion. In Slovenia, part of prostitution is partially regulated, which allows for the registration of activities, but the stigma remains.
When asked if he sees himself as a unionist, he answers affirmatively in a functional sense: Dobra Družba acts as a representative of the interests of sex workers, primarily in the fight against human trafficking and forced prostitution, preventing pimping, and providing information and support to those who want to enter or leave the industry.
Expansion into the Region: Croatia and Serbia
The interview also reveals ambitions to expand the operations of Dobra Družba from Slovenia to Croatia and Serbia. They plan to establish branches and educational programs, including an academy for porn actors and cameramen near Istria.
The purpose of these initiatives is not to promote the industry, but professionalization, safety, and knowledge. Sedevčič emphasizes that stigmatization does not reduce demand – but increases risks.
Between Myth and Work
Throughout the interview, the central message is repeated: sex work is not a myth, but work that exists regardless of whether society acknowledges it or not. When it is pushed to the margins, it is more dangerous; when it is regulated, it is more transparent and safer – both for workers and the environment.
Sedevčič's appearance in Glas Istre is thus not a provocation, but a call for realism: for a debate that transcends moral stereotypes and focuses on rights, safety, and responsibility.