ISLAMABAD – The Dutch government said Tuesday it is eyeing new laws toregulate prostitution including banning sex workers aged under 21 andhanding out permits.
The reforms come as the Netherlands works to improve living conditions forsex workers and combat human trafficking, a statement said.
The Netherlands legalised prostitution in 2000 but concerns have grownabout the unchecked growth of the industry.Ad
“A new legally required permit will soon be introduced for all prostitutesand those in the sex-worker industry to regulate it and combat humantrafficking,” the government said.
Those without permits would be breaking the law — including clients whomake use of illegal prostitution.
Pimping, transporting and acting as a body guard to sexworkers who don’thave a permit will also be illegal.
Around 7,000 people work in the paid-sex sector in Amsterdam alone wherethe country’s best-known red light area is situated.
About 75 percent of its sex workers come from low-income countries,particularly eastern Europe, according to official figures.
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In the Netherlands, sex workers have to register with the local chamber ofcommerce and pay income tax.
But Dutch authorities have become increasingly concerned about the spreadof the industry, particularly with the advent of social media and theinternet, which some sex workers use to canvas clients.
“Currently there is not enough oversight of non-licensed companies, theescort industry and independently operating prostitutes, which means abusescan happen,” the government said.
Some 12 to 18 municipalities will be able to hand out permits, with eachone documented in a national register.
Sex workers themselves will not be bound to specific areas once issued witha permit. – APP/AFP
