• Sex Worker Argues Against the Nordic Model in Germany

    Sex Worker Argues Against the Nordic Model in Germany

    In Germany, the debate about banning the purchase of sex has been heating up again. A sex worker named Eva, who works in a brothel in Münster called Wunschfabrik, shared her opinion in an interview with Evangelisch.de. She has been in the profession for several years and says a ban would only make life more dangerous for people like her. “A ban would just push more sex workers into illegality,” Eva explained.

    Many in Germany’s sex work community agree with her, as do organizations like the Diakonie. Elke Ronneberger from Diakonie stated clearly: “We reject the so-called Nordic Model. It worsens the situation for sex workers, increases the risk of violence and disease, and makes it harder to get help and healthcare.”

    Germany’s Legal Approach vs. the Nordic Model

    The Nordic Model, first introduced in Sweden in 1999, makes buying sex illegal but allows selling it. That means sex workers are not punished, but their clients and brothel owners are. Germany has chosen a different path: prostitution is legal and regulated.

    Since 2017, the Prostitutes Protection Act has defined clear rules. Sex workers must register with local authorities, condom use is mandatory, and regular health checks are required.

    Brothels must also pass inspections. Forced prostitution and human trafficking, however, remain serious crimes.

    Bea, whose husband owns the brothel where Eva works, says authorities check them regularly.

    She strongly opposes a sex purchase ban: “It would only hurt the state itself. Our businesses pay millions in taxes.”

    She admits there are unlicensed private apartments where illegal prostitution happens, but she stresses that everyone working in their brothel is registered and follows the law.

    Alliance for Legal Prostitution

    To defend their right to work legally, brothel owners and sex clubs have formed the Alliance for Legal Prostitution. The group recently released a collection of essays by researchers, lawyers, and historians called A Sex Purchase Ban Is Against All Reason.

    Stephanie Klee, chair of the Federal Association of Sexual Services, said their goal is to build a strong knowledge base for understanding sex work as part of society and the economy. The alliance also aims to fight the growing political pressure for the Nordic Model in Germany and to draw attention to the economic challenges faced by legal brothels and sex workers.

    Government Research Shows Mixed Results

    Recently, the German government asked the Criminological Research Institute of Lower Saxony to evaluate the country’s prostitution laws. The study involved sex workers from many different environments, from brothels to street work.

    According to research director Tillmann Bartsch, the law has “both strengths and weaknesses.” Registration is mostly working well, but identifying victims of human trafficking has proven difficult due to insufficient training for officials.

    Although the study did not directly compare Germany’s system with others like those in the Netherlands or New Zealand, Bartsch said, “Many of the measures have proven useful, and what doesn’t work yet can often be improved.”

    The researchers concluded that Germany has no reason to abandon its current approach.

    sex in Vienna

    Why the Nordic Model Fails Sex Workers

    Critics say the Nordic Model, which criminalizes buyers but not sellers, does more harm than good. Here’s why:

    1. It pushes sex work underground. When clients fear arrest, they avoid legal venues and prefer hidden, unsafe locations. This exposes sex workers to more violence and makes it harder to report crimes.
    2. It destroys financial stability. In countries like Austria, legal sex workers have stable income and access to healthcare. The Nordic Model scares off clients and drives many women into poverty or unsafe work.
    3. It doesn’t stop human trafficking. Trafficking is caused by poverty and global inequality, not legal sex work. Criminalizing buyers only makes it harder to detect real victims.
    4. It increases stigma. By treating all sex workers as victims and all clients as criminals, the model removes personal choice and deepens social exclusion.
    5. It harms health and safety. Without legal protection, sex workers lose access to medical services and safe workplaces. Fear of being exposed keeps them away from doctors and the police.
    6. It destroys trust in law enforcement. If clients risk legal trouble, many sex workers avoid reporting crimes, leaving them vulnerable to abuse.
    7. It affects mental health. Constant fear of raids and judgment causes stress, anxiety, and depression. Regulated systems like Austria’s provide security and predictability.
    8. It reverses progress. Countries like Germany and Austria have built frameworks that protect workers and fight exploitation. Adopting the Nordic Model would undo these achievements.

    Read our article in the topic:

    Top 10 reasons why the Nordic Model is bad for sex workers

    The Bigger Picture

    Supporters of the Nordic Model often claim it helps victims of exploitation.

    But as many sex workers argue, it does the opposite—it isolates them and removes their safety nets.

    Legal, regulated systems create transparency and protect those in the industry, while criminalization forces them into the shadows.

    The evidence is clear: banning the purchase of sex does not end prostitution—it only makes it more dangerous.

    For now, Germany remains committed to regulation over prohibition. As the government reviews its laws, the voices of sex workers like Eva remind the public that safety, dignity, and choice matter far more than moral judgment.

    svdev

    ,

  • Woman in Überlingen Suspected of Offering Unprotected Sex Despite HIV Infection

    Woman in Überlingen Suspected of Offering Unprotected Sex Despite HIV Infection

    Police in the Bodenseekreis district are investigating a woman who is suspected of offering unprotected sex for money while being infected with HIV. Prosecutors have opened a case on charges of illegal prostitution and causing grievous bodily harm.

    The suspicion grew stronger after investigators reviewed documents linked to the woman. Authorities have not confirmed how many clients may have been affected.

    Prostitution Laws in Baden-Württemberg

    Under state law, prostitution is banned in towns with fewer than 35,000 residents. Towns with up to 50,000 residents may apply for partial or full bans, creating so-called “Sperrbezirke.” In larger cities, prostitution cannot be completely forbidden.

    Adult sex work is legal in Germany, but official numbers are limited. According to the Federal Statistical Office, about 30,600 sex workers were registered at the end of 2023.

    The real number is likely far higher, as many remain unregistered. Roughly 80 percent of those listed do not hold German citizenship.

    The Prostitute Protection Act of 2017 requires all sex workers to register, attend an information session, and take part in regular health counseling. People over 21 must attend counseling once a year, while those under 21 must attend every six months. HIV tests, however, are not mandatory.

    Health Risks

    Condoms remain the most effective protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, according to health officials.

    HIV weakens the immune system and spreads through contact with body fluids. If untreated, it can develop into AIDS, which leaves the body vulnerable to otherwise manageable illnesses.

    Advocacy groups note that some sex workers are pressured or paid more to have sex without condoms, which increases the risk of transmission.

    However unprotected sex is dangerous, Vienna is known of the fact, that many sex workers offer it. Read our article why they do this:

    5 reasons why sex workers offer AO sex

    Regulations in Vienna

    Austria has its own rules for sex work, with Vienna applying particularly strict health standards. Before being allowed to provide sexual services, sex workers must undergo an initial mandatory medical check-up. This includes a pap smear and a blood test. If no infection is found, the worker receives a health ID card (known as a Gesundheitsbuch), which must be carried at all times while working and shown to authorities upon request.

    Follow-up health checks are required at least once every six weeks. A pap smear is conducted each time, while a blood test must be done at least every 12 weeks. Some federal states also require an annual chest X-ray to check for tuberculosis. These check-ups are free at local health offices.

    Vienna also provides guidance on safe practices: sex workers are advised to use condoms and, for oral sex, either condoms or latex dental dams. Sex toys should be sanitized between uses, ideally with a condom.

    Condoms alone do not guarantee full protection against pregnancy, so additional methods such as the pill, IUD, or contraceptive injection are recommended. If an accident occurs, the “morning after pill” is available without prescription at pharmacies and is effective if taken within 72 hours.

    Authorities also highlight the mental health challenges linked to sex work. Many providers face discrimination and stigma. Counseling centers in Vienna offer free, confidential support, and workers can remain anonymous if they choose.

    Are you looking for safe sex in Vienna? Then don’t miss our article in the topic: Top Clubs that Don’t Allow AO Sex

    svdev

    ,

  • Berlin’s Sex Work Scene: What’s Really Happening

    Berlin’s Sex Work Scene: What’s Really Happening

    Berlin’s sex work industry is more complicated than it looks. Official numbers show more people are registering as sex workers, but there’s a lot happening behind these statistics.

    Thousands of workers face real problems with safety, government oversight, and getting help when they need it.

    The Real Numbers Are Higher

    Government records show thousands of registered sex workers in Berlin. This seems like good news, but experts think many more people work in this industry without being registered.

    Why don’t they register? Some are afraid of being judged by others.

    Others worry about legal problems or simply don’t know how to sign up. Sometimes researchers do special studies to count these “hidden” workers, but these studies cost a lot of money and don’t happen often. This means we don’t really know how many sex workers there actually are.

    Safety Problems Are Getting Worse

    One big problem is that government officials aren’t checking on brothels and street work areas as much as they used to. When nobody’s watching, unsafe and dangerous situations can develop. Workers might face abuse, violence, or unfair treatment.

    Police and social workers are already busy with other things, so they have less time to keep an eye on the sex work industry. This leaves many sex workers feeling unsafe and alone at their jobs.

    Even with these problems, Berlin has organizations that work hard to help sex workers. Groups like Olga and Hydra offer many services: healthcare, legal advice, counseling, and safe places to meet. These groups help with everyday problems and also help workers feel less alone.

    Without these organizations, many sex workers would have to handle their problems by themselves. These groups show how important it is to have community support for safety and respect.

    Speaking Up Makes a Difference

    Another important part of making things better is advocacy – speaking up for sex workers’ rights. When more people understand what sex workers go through, it can lead to better laws and policies.

    When sex workers can tell their stories, politicians and other leaders can make better decisions.

    This happens through public discussions, talking to government officials, and teaching people about the real issues.

    Advocates work to create a safer and fairer world where sex workers are treated with respect.

    What’s Next?

    More people registering as sex workers in Berlin shows that the system is changing, but there are still big problems to solve. Safety issues, unregistered workers, and lack of government oversight are all serious concerns.

    But the work being done by support groups and advocates shows that things can get better. With more attention and money, Berlin could create a system where sex workers are safer, more visible, and face less discrimination.

    The future of Berlin’s sex work industry depends on everyone working together – government officials, community groups, and sex workers themselves. The most important thing is making sure workers’ rights and safety come first in all decisions.

    Don’t miss our article in this topic: 6 Reasons Why Escort Girls from Agencies Are More Recommended Than Independent Escorts

    svdev

  • Should buying sex be banned in Germany?

    Should buying sex be banned in Germany?

    We read an article in taz that talked about the Nordic model and whether it could be used in Germany. The story focused on Elke Bartels, a former police president, who wants to stop the buying of sex. She believes this could help fight forced prostitution.

    Changing the law to protect women

    Bartels doesn’t think prostitution can or should be completely stopped. She is mostly worried about women being forced into prostitution. She said that Germany’s current laws make it too easy for this to happen and that some things allowed by the law go against human dignity.

    She explained that Germany is sometimes called the brothel of Europe because it’s easy to force women into prostitution here. Her idea is to use the Nordic model, which makes it illegal to buy sex but not to sell it.

    Bartels also said that police can’t easily inspect brothels. Right now, they need a good reason to go in. They can’t just show up and check what’s going on. She believes that if buying sex was illegal, police could do more inspections, and brothels might close down.

    Problems with the current system

    When asked if the police have enough people to handle this kind of work, she said they would need more staff. The police would also need to start looking at websites where sex work is advertised.

    Bartels also talked about the idea of voluntary sex work. She said that it can be hard to say if someone is really doing it by choice.

    Some women might do it because they need more money or have had hard lives. So, it might not always be a true choice.

    She added that police often don’t know how investigations turn out. Because of data privacy laws, courts don’t have to tell police what happened after a case goes to court. This makes it hard for police to do their job well.

    Bartels also wants to change the way society thinks. She said that going to brothels is still seen as a fun thing to do, like for bachelor parties. But she hopes that, with new laws and social change, going to a brothel will no longer be seen as cool.

    There is a lot of problems with human trafficking

    It is true that in DACH countries, there are a lot of problems with human trafficking, and criminals are often involved in forced prostitution. As we reported, the police authorities are continuously fighting against these groups, and there are raids in all of the DACH countries. Lately, the German police eliminated many criminal groups, but this seems an endless fight because of the large number of criminals.

    However, saying that all of the girls who work voluntarily in brothels are most likely forced is not true. In DACH countries, the pay-sex scene is well regulated, and many women have the chance to work legally. There are different earning possibilities in the 3 DACH countries. As a rule of thumb, women can earn the most in Switzerland, followed by Germany and Austria. However, Austria, and especially Vienna, offers a safer environment for the women, and organized crime is less involved in brothels.

    Vienna has a lot of high-class brothels, including the top-notch sex clubs, a few sauna clubs, and laufhauses, so women can choose the appropriate brothel type for themselves and start their career.

    As we also wrote, banning the entire paid sex industry would have huge disadvantages. In terms of girls, a ban would mean less security for them, worse working conditions, higher risk of sexually transmitted diseases, and aggressive clients without control. Read our reasons in detail here:

    Top 10 reasons why the Nordic Model is bad for sex workers

    In terms of clients, a ban would mean more dangerous sexual encounters, often supervised by pimps and threats to customers after being ripped off. Of course, in a banned sex scene, these customers would also not have help from legal authorities because the buyers of sexual services would be banned by law. You can read about this here:

    Top 10 reasons why the Nordic Prostitution Model is bad for men

    And in terms of society, a banned sex scene would mean less paid taxes from sex workers, bigger costs of curing the STDs, and more money spent on the battle against illegal prostitutes and pimps. Read our reasons in this article:

    Top 10 reasons why the Nordic Prostitution Model is bad for society

    By summarizing, banning paid sex or introducing the Nordic model would mean huge disadvantages for everyone. Even though there are many criminals and forced prostitutes in the DACH countries’ sex scene, overall, the scene is well regulated and provides safe work and good earning possibilities for the women.

    svdev

  • Sex worker disappeared in Germany, police investigates the case

    Sex worker disappeared in Germany, police investigates the case

    A 33-year-old woman named Katina K., who worked as a sex worker, has disappeared in Germany, and there are fears that she may have been a victim of a crime. She was last seen on August 1st in Eggolsheim, Bavaria, and has not been heard from since. Her family in Hamburg reported her missing, which led the police in Bamberg to take over the investigation.

    Katina worked in several brothels across Germany, including in the Hamburg districts of Wandsbek and Lurup. She sometimes also visited clients at their homes. Before she disappeared, she had been staying in Eggolsheim temporarily for work, but suddenly all traces of her were lost.

    73-year-old man becomes a suspect

    During their investigation, the police quickly turned their attention to a 73-year-old local man named Joseph H., who has a criminal past involving serious offenses. Witnesses said that Katina was last seen with Joseph H., and he was soon taken into custody. However, he has not said anything about Katina’s disappearance or his connection to it.

    The Bamberg police have shared photos of both Katina and Joseph H. with the public, hoping that someone might have information that could help. Despite getting over 100 tips and searching the area extensively, there have been no solid results so far.

    The Bamberg police have set up a special team called Sofia to focus on this case. The team is looking into all possible leads and asking the public for help. Even with all their efforts, finding out what happened to Katina has been challenging.

    “We are following up on all tips and ask anyone who knows something to come forward,” said a police spokesperson from Bamberg. The investigation is still ongoing, and the police continue to search for any clues that could explain what happened.

    the missing sex worker
    Katina K., the missing sex worker, source: Police Oberfranken

    The police are also looking at another missing person’s case from 1994. A 32-year-old woman went missing from the same area after a party. At that time, Joseph H. was also a suspect, but no charges were made against him. Now, with Joseph H. a suspect once again in Katina’s disappearance, the police are re-examining the older case to see if there might be a connection.

    Don’t miss our latest articles

    Studio Oelweingasse 18 (White Angels) in Vienna is criticized for its poor hygiene, small and inadequate facilities, and lack of a consistent team of workers. The quality of services is described as unreliable, with some concerns about safety standards. Overall, the studio is considered one of the least reputable in the area, similar to other poorly reviewed locations in Vienna’s 15th and 2nd districts. Read our review here: Studio Oelweingasse 18 (White Angels) review

    Some sex workers choose to offer unprotected sex because it can bring in higher earnings, meet client requests, and align with their own comfort or preferences. Financial stress and competition also push some to provide these risky services to attract more clients. These choices are influenced by a mix of economic need and customer demand. Read our detailed article where we unveiled the reasons why these women offer sex without condom: 5 reasons why sex workers offer AO sex

    Cash remains popular in sex clubs for several reasons: it offers privacy and security for both clients and workers, avoids credit card fees, and is less traceable, helping maintain anonymity. Cash also provides immediate payment without waiting for transactions to clear and reduces the risk of fraud. For many, it’s simply the most convenient and reliable way to handle transactions in these settings. Read our long-form article where we explained, why this payment method is still the number one in the best sex clubs as well: Top 6 reasons why cash is still king in a sex club

    Vienna offers a variety of strip clubs that cater to different preferences and experiences. Top recommendations include clubs known for their upscale ambiance, professional performances, and friendly atmosphere. Some clubs focus on classic striptease shows, while others offer a more interactive experience. Many of these venues also provide VIP options and private dances, creating a memorable night out in the city. Overall, Vienna’s strip clubs offer diverse choices to suit various tastes and budgets. Read our top list about the best places here: Best strip clubs in Vienna

    svdev

  • German man causes trouble and resists cops in Innsbruck

    German man causes trouble and resists cops in Innsbruck

    Two weeks ago, a chaotic scene unfolded at a brothel in Innsbruck. A 33-year-old man from Germany allegedly got into a fight with a sex worker, causing damage to the place. Things got worse when he refused to cooperate with the police.

    Around 2:15 a.m., police were called to the scene due to reports of a physical fight and property damage. They found the man, who was very drunk, and he didn’t make it easy for them to arrest him. Despite his resistance, they managed to take him into custody.

    During the arrest, the man got a bit hurt, but the police were fine. Worried about his mental state, they took him to the hospital for a check-up. Authorities think the man might have been going through a tough time mentally. They’re still looking into what exactly led to the fight.

    Don’t miss our previous articles

    Luxury nightclubs offer an unparalleled experience compared to traditional brothels, boasting high-class amenities, sophisticated ambiance, and top-tier beverages. For those intrigued by erotic games, these establishments serve as the ultimate playground, with an array of experiences tailored to every desire.

    Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, delve into our list of six sex games: 6 sex games you can play in a luxury erotic nightclub

    A 59-year-old man fell prey to a love scam, losing €1.8 million to a Bulgarian woman who admitted to 58 counts of fraud in Heidelberg’s Landgericht. Their relationship began innocently in Frankfurt’s red-light district but escalated as the man became emotionally involved. Despite his rational nature working in IT, he overlooked red flags, sending tens of thousands of euros weekly over several months.

    The accused admitted guilt at trial, with a proposed sentence of around four years, pending full acknowledgment of her actions: Romance turns to fraud as prostitute swindles 1.8 million Euros from customer

    New type of ads appeared on Booksusi. These ads all use two phone numbers and fake addresses. When users looked closer, they found something strange. They found many profiles with the same two phone numbers and slogans.

    In just a few minutes, they found at least twelve of these profiles. Most of the profiles use stolen pictures, mainly from one person, sometimes from two others: These are the methods how girls cheat you on Booksusi

    A recent interview on Krone.at revealed details about a legal brothel in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus. Despite four sex workers being present, there were no customers. The brothel operator blamed illegal prostitutes working from private apartments.

    The report also talked about Loverboys from Eastern Europe who take a big part of sex workers’ earnings: In 2023, the police conducted 82 checks in the red-light district of Vienna

    svdev

    , ,

  • Oral Sex Allowed in Berlin while Kissing Remains Taboo

    Oral Sex Allowed in Berlin while Kissing Remains Taboo

    The red light is officially switched on in Berlin after seven months of stagnation. Brothels have opened their doors, although sex workers and clients are still not allowed to have sexual intercourse. Right now, services such as bondage, erotic massages and similar are allowed.

    According to the decision made by the Senate, only one client is allowed to be present per sex worker. An appointment has to be made beforehand in every case.

    Services that are Still Not Allowed

    The government still does not allow sexual intercourse, gang bang parties and facial practices such as kissing. Clients can enter only after showing a negative test and wearing a medical mask is also mandatory. The mask has to be on throughout the whole session for the client and the sex worker as well.

    Of course, in the case of oral sex, women can take off their mask. Meanwhile, safety measures need to be followed in order to prevent infection. In Berlin, these rules are not quite precise at the moment, at least compared to the standards of the health administration.

    Update: On June 15, the rules have changed. Brothels and prostitutes in general are not allowed to provide oral sex at all. None of the services that are close to the face are allowed. Clients and sex workers still need to show negative tests and wear medical face masks the whole time. Sexual intercourse is not allowed, while bondage and erotic massages are allowed.

    Meanwhile, what about the Vienna Prostitution Scene?

    Vienna is also taking health measures seriously. The difference is that brothels and escort agencies can work normally as long as clients show negative tests and respect the rules and regulations. Of course, sex workers need to take regular health checks and also have to be tested for Covid.

    Rules and regulations can differ in each federal state but at least the situation allows sex workers to work without huge limitations.

    Read the latest news about sex work in Vienna and Austria in general in this article: Information about Legal Sex Work in Austria

    Also read about the situation in Germany in this recent article: The Situation in Germany Slowly Getting Back to Normal

    svdev

  • The Situation in Germany Slowly Getting Back to Normal

    The Situation in Germany Slowly Getting Back to Normal

    Germany is already lifting the prostitution ban in some of its states. The first step was to allow sex workers to get back to work in Saxony-Anhalt and Schleswig-Holstein. The lockdown is officially over and prostitutes demand fair treatment.

    Also, an increasing number of people get vaccinated which means that it became less risky to offer sexual services. Right now, the professional association for erotic and sexual services (BesD) tries to bring the focus to lifting the prostitution ban.

    Many Prostitutes are Still Struggling after the Lockdown

    The Covid pandemic made work impossible for prostitutes. This has put many sex workers into an existential crisis. Many of those women who could not find other job opportunities continued to work as illegal prostitutes.

    This means a lot of trouble with the authorities. Now the situation is better in some federal states, as sex work is allowed again. Johanna Weber, spokeswomen of the association for erotic and sexual sevices emphasized the fact that the situation needs to be fixed in the other federal states as well.

    Johanna Ebeling from the Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung emphasized that sex workers deserve equal treatment. Her opinion was that it would be okay to allow brothels to reopen and welcome clients with negative tests. The testing concept and nationwide uniform hygiene measures are all ready.

    June 18 is going to be a bit of a relief for sex workers as services without sexual intercourse are going to be allowed again.

    Sex Workers Demand Fair Treatment from the Government

    The main problem here is that prostitutes feel mistreated by the government in Germany. Many other body-to-body services are allowed as the Covid situation became less serious, while the paysex scene is still stagnating. Physiotherapy, beer gardens and massage parlors are already open.

    After the first lockdown, the prostitution ban was lifted in Berlin because two court cases were won. A domina studio and a massage parlor initiated both cases and winning them successfully accelerated the process.

    The results were convincing, as sex workers were initially allowed to offer massages. It took only 14 days for the government to allow sexual intercourses as well. Now sex workers are waiting for brothels or institutions to take action in a similar way.

    The Reason Why Illegal Prostitution is on the Rise in Germany

    Currently, many prostitutes are forced into illegality in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hamburg and Saarland. The situation got slightly better when many of them have received Corona aid and unemployment benefits. Since about 40,000 men and women are registered as sex workers, there are still a lot of people who are struggling.

    This is all because, according to Johanna Ebeling, politicians are hypocritical and their stance is based on moral reasons. In her opinion, there are no other reasons not to open brothels. Politicians need to rather focus on the fact that legal sex work ensures safety against violence and blackmail.

    Sources:

    How did Austria Handle the Situation?

    Meanwhile, Austria handles the situation in an exemplary manner. Although the measures there vary from one federal state to the other, sexual intercourse is allowed. There are health measures that everyone has to follow but it is completely reasonable since the risk of Covid has to be respected.

    Read our Information about Legal Sex Work in Austria article for more details.

    by Sex in Vienna

    svdev

  • Effects of the Pandemic on the German prostitution industry

    Effects of the Pandemic on the German prostitution industry

    The effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic are affecting almost everything in the World as we know it. The prostitution industry is one that is heavily being damaged by the current laws and sex workers are in a substantial predicament right now. We’ve been reporting about the situation in Vienna and Austria, and we’re seeing a very similar picture in Germany too.

    In this article, we will be writing about the conditions that German sex workers have to live and work in because of the current ban on legal prostitution. For more details, keep reading!

    Prostitution is currently banned in Germany

    As part of the new COVID-19 regulations, legal sex work in Germany has been suspended for the time being. Women are not allowed to offer sexual services and this has caused a lot of trouble for them. Since they are not allowed to work legally, many turn to illegal prostitution and offer their services regardless of the laws.

    This not only puts them in a situation where they have to fear the authorities, but they are not protected from malicious clients either. Since they cannot call the police for help in case a client wants to harm them, they need to constantly live and work in fear.

    In the following paragraphs, we will be writing about different sex workers in Germany and how the COVID-19 laws have affected their lives. This article is based on a BBC News video that was recently posted on their site. To see the original video we used as source, click on the link above or the video player below.

    Jana, a legally working sex worker

    The first woman we are introduced to is Jana. In the video, she’s showing the reporter around in the brothel where she’s been working for 23 years. Jana says that she loves her job and can’t wait to get back to the brothel and her clients.

    Although currently she is not allowed to offer sexual services, she is still getting monthly support from the government which helps in paying necessary bills, such as groceries and rent. Jana also says that her job is important to society and that if it weren’t legalized, prostitution would still continue just underground and through illegal means, which wouldn’t be good for anybody.

    Aisha works illegally on the streets

    The second woman is Aisha who continues to work illegally on the streets even though the current laws restrict it. She isn’t legally registered as a sex worker and she has no other choice if she wants to earn money than to work illegally.

    Since she isn’t a registered sex worker, she doesn’t get any help from the authorities and has to work in secret. Additionally, she is hiding from the authorities as well, so she cannot call for help if one of her clients wants to harm her or if she’s in any danger.

    Current Corona Virus laws make it hard for sex workers to survive

    Women who are registered still get help from the government and can survive without having to offer illegal sexual services. However, those who work illegally only get money if they continue to work.

    The problem with this is that women who are working illegally don’t get any help or protection from the authorities. This means that they could be in danger because of a client and they would have nobody to turn to. Although the current laws have probably made life safer for people in general, the working conditions of sex workers have become much worse.

    Similar articles from the Sex in Vienna blog

    If you’ve been following our blog, you know that we constantly post about news that happens in Vienna recently. The situation is very similar in Austria too, with many sex workers having to work illegally for the time being:

    Just like in Germany, this puts them in a lot of danger and they are not able to get help from the government and the authorities when needed. For more details, take a look at any of the following related articles from our blog now!

    by Sex Vienna

    svdev

    ,

  • Pascha in Germany, Cologne sold to new owner after bankruptcy

    Pascha in Germany, Cologne sold to new owner after bankruptcy

    Last year in September we have published a post about the Pascha brothel in Germany, Cologne filing for bankruptcy because of the then new COVID-19 laws. Now we are writing this news piece to inform our readers about the fact that the brothel has now been sold to a new owner for a considerable amount of money. To learn how much the new owner had to pay and everything else about this trade, be sure to keep reading this post!

    Pascha in Cologne sold for eleven million euros

    According to our sources, the exchange of ownership has been finalized on the 19th of February. Allegedly, the price of the building was set at eleven million euros and the new owners do not wish to reveal their identity just yet. Additionally, it is still unclear if the building will be reopened as a brothel in the future or if the name will stay. In case the new owner wishes to use the Pascha name in the future, they will need to pay a license fee to the owner of the brand name.

    The history of the Pascha brothel in Cologne

    As previously mentioned, we have already written about this brothel on our blog. In that article, we have detailed the brothel’s history, the interesting and controversial things that have happened, as well as the incidents that occurred in the building. In case you wish to read more about this, we highly suggest you check out the following article from the Sex in Vienna blog: Pascha in Germany, Cologne files for bankruptcy

    Summary

    We are not sure at this time if the Pascha brothel in Cologne will be open again once the restrictions have been lifted. Currently, brothel owners are not able to open up their businesses to clients because of the Corona Virus laws that are in effect. We will have to wait and see what the future holds for one of the largest brothels in Europe.

    Until we can serve new information about this topic, be sure to take a closer look at some of these related articles from Sex Vienna blog now!

    svdev

  • Closure of brothels in Germany and curfew in Austria

    Closure of brothels in Germany and curfew in Austria

    The Corona Virus has once again put a strain on the prostitution business in Germany and Austria as well. A set of new laws have been introduced because of the large number of infections in these countries. In order to battle the infection rate, Germany has decided to close down all types of brothels for the time being. On the other hand, Austria has introduced the previously lifted curfew that was in effect. For more information about this, as well as info about how Austrian businesses notified their clients, keep reading this Sex in Vienna blog post now!

    Germany’s answer to increase in COVID-19 infections

    Since there are many new cases of the Corona Virus in Germany, new laws had to be introduced. The German government has banned all brothels and other adult entertainment venues from operating in the month of November. The laws are different for each state, which means that some things are allowed in one state which is banned in others. Additionally, the laws are not very specific as to what type of prostitution are banned, so certain things, such as escort agencies might still be able to operate.

    Curfew in Austria because of the Corona Virus

    The Austrian government has also taken action as a result of the increase in COVID-19 infections. The curfew between 8PM and 6AM has been reinstated again and no prostitution businesses are allowed to operate. This means that businesses are not allowed to operate between these hours and that nobody is allowed to be outside on the streets either.

    In case you want to read more about this, take a closer look at the Sex Club Wien website where we initially found the info. Click on the link now to get redirected!

    How Austrian establishments notified their clients

    The curfew has made it impossible for adult entertainment venues to operate, and the establishments have notified their clients in different ways. In the next paragraph, we will be looking at how clients were notified of this change.

    Sexclub Maxim Wien: As always, Maxim Wien was one of the first clubs to tell their clients of the new lockdown. The sexclub has published a notice on their official website stating that the club is unfortunately going to be closed due to the lockdown in November. They also added that they will return with full power starting from the 1st of December when they are awaiting their client’s return to the club.

    Goldentime FKK: Much like Maxim, the Goldentime FKK also notified their clients through their website. They posted a message on the top of their establishment’s website saying that their company must stay closed till November 30 according to the new COVID-19 regulations. According to the statement, the Goldentime FKK is also going to reopen as soon as they are allowed to.

    Laufhaus Vienna: The Laufhaus Vienna management has also notified the clients on their site. Clients can find a notice on the main page saying that the Laufhaus will be closed between November 3 and November 30. According to the statement, the ladies of Laufhaus Vienna will be awaiting guests from December 1.

    Summary

    Certain laws had to be introduced because of the Corona Virus in Germany and Austria alike. This means that the prostitution scene in German speaking countries has been halted in the month of November. According to the laws, brothels will be able to open once again starting from December 1. Unfortunately this is not set in stone as we could see other laws being introduced in case the rise of COVID-19 infections in November. Hopefully this won’t be the case and we can return to enjoying brothels, clubs, Laufhauses and other adult entertainment venues in Germany and Austria as soon as possible.

    svdev

  • Pascha in Germany, Cologne files for bankruptcy

    Pascha in Germany, Cologne files for bankruptcy

    The COVID-19 disease continues to take lives and destroy businesses as we are getting nearer to the end of the 2020 year. The latest business that fell victim to the measures introduced by the Corona Virus is one of the biggest brothels in Europe, Pascha in Cologne, Germany. For further details about what happened to the brothel and why the owners had to file for bankruptcy, continue reading the post.

    History of the Pascha brothel in Cologne

    The brothel was originally opened in 1972 and it was actually the first high-rise brothel in Europe. Back then, the establishment was called “Eros Center” and it was built in order to eliminate the red light district in Cologne. The now famous “Pascha” name was given to the brothel after 1995 when a new owner took over the operation of the business.

    The building has 7 floors and 126 rooms for the prostitutes to operate from. The ladies had to pay a fee to use the rooms available in the brothel, but they received various benefits, such as meals, medical care, protection and of course the ability to operate from one of Europe’s biggest brothels.

    Pacha brothel in Cologne

    The brothel was opened 24 hours a day, so business was booming for the women, as well as the operator of the brothel. In 2010, a documentary about the brothel named “Like a Pascha” was created, which gave even more publicity to the brothel.

    Incidents in the Pascha brothel

    There have been multiple incidents in the history of the Pascha brothel over the years that it was operational. The police had to visit the brothel multiple times because of harassment, illegal activities, protests, aggravated assault and many other things.

    Additionally, in 2017, the founder of the Pascha brothel (Hermann Müller) was sentenced to 3 years of imprisonment because of tax evasion in another one of his brothels. The brothel was also raided by the police on multiple occasions for different reasons.

    Pascha closed in 2020 because of the Corona Virus

    At the start of September, 2020, the Pascha brothel in Cologne had to file for bankruptcy because of the new laws that were introduced in Germany as a result of the Corona Virus. Prostitution has been banned in the North Rhine-Westphalia state in Germany for the time being, which made it impossible to operate the brother legally. As a result of not being able to operate, the owner wasn’t able to maintain keeping the brothel open, so they had to file for bankruptcy. Additionally, the German government wasn’t able to tell them when they can start doing business again.

    Before the lockdown, there were around 120 prostitutes working in the Pascha brothel, all of which have lost their job when the new laws have been introduced. At this point, the women had to go back to their country of origin or simply look for other job opportunities in Germany.

    Conclusion on Pascha being closed

    At this time nobody knows when or if the Pascha brothel is going to be able to reopen again. According to the owner, he hopes that they are going to be able to open again starting from next year, if they get financial help from banks and other contributors. And of course if the prostitution laws amidst the Corona Virus in Vienna change.

    To read the German publication that this article was based on, check out the original German text on the kurier.at website.

    We will make sure to keep our readers up-to-date on everything that happens regarding this brothel. Until we can serve new information, you should definitely check out some of these related articles!

    Comment this article in the related SV Forum thread: Pascha in Germany, Cologne files for bankruptcy

    svdev