Аннотация: The article studies the problem of the existing phenomenon of prostitution in modern society. The main attention is paid to the study of trends of its decriminalization in society. Based on the conducted research and statistical data, the legislation is analyzed (by the example of some countries). It substantiates the importance of purposeful actions of the state not only in preventing real crimes arising in the field of sex work, but also in forming a negative view of the phenomenon of prostitution.