▓▓▓ The Legal Framework: Prostitution Act of 2002 ▓▓▓
The *Prostitution Act* of 2002 marked a significant shift in how Germany addressed sex work. The
primary goals of the legislation were to destigmatize prostitution, improve working conditions for
sex workers, and combat human trafficking. Key aspects of the law include:
• Legal Recognition: Prostitution is recognized as a legitimate profession. Sex workers can
enter into legally binding contracts, access social security, and receive health insurance.
• Regulation Over Criminalization: The law removed many criminal penalties associated with
prostitution, focusing instead on regulation. For example, brothels must be licensed, and sex
workers are required to register with local authorities in many regions.
• Protection Against Exploitation: The law aims to protect sex workers from exploitation and
trafficking by criminalizing forced prostitution and pimping under exploitative conditions.
In 2017, the *Prostitute Protection Act (ProstSchG)* further tightened regulations, introducing
mandatory registration for sex workers and stricter licensing for brothels. It also mandated regular
health checks and counseling, though these measures have been criticized by some sex worker advocacy
groups as invasive and discriminatory.
