Security & Information

Sex work is legal, but unfortunately, there are still abuses that need attention. Abuses such as exploitation, human trafficking, and unsafe working conditions still occur within the prostitution sector.

As an organization, we take our social and human responsibility seriously. We are taking action to better protect customers and sex workers.

We inform the entire chain through awareness campaigns to make it clear that abuses exist, how they can recognize them, and what they can do about them.

We work closely with the police. We share knowledge about signals that may indicate abuses and information to combat them as best as possible.

Our goal is to create a safe environment in which sex workers can do their work without exploitation or other forms of abuse.

Here are some specific examples:

• Exploitation: Some sex workers are exploited by pimps or employers, forced to work in adverse conditions.
• Human trafficking: A serious abuse where sex workers are moved against their will or forced to provide sexual services.
• Unsafe working conditions: Violence, sexual abuse, or lack of access to health care.
• Stigma and discrimination: Sex workers are often stigmatized and discriminated against.
• Financial exploitation: Some sex workers receive unfair payment for their services.

As a customer, you can sometimes notice abuses or sense that something is not right. It is important not to look away, but to report it to prevent these abuses from continuing. To protect your privacy, there are options for reporting anonymously:

• Report Crime Anonymously: An independent reporting center where you can share information without revealing your identity.
• Report forced prostitution: If you suspect forced prostitution, report it to the police.

Protect yourself and your client by always using a condom. Use a condom for intimate and oral sex. Get tested twice a year. Also, make sure to use contraception.

If sex is your job, STIs are occupational risks. It is important to get tested at least twice a year. You can also get vaccinated against hepatitis B at a special sex work consultation of the GGD, a general consultation or your GP.

Are you just starting sex work? Make sure you are aware of your rights, obligations, and healthy & safe working conditions before you begin. You can work independently and according to the "opting-in" measure.

Do you want to stop sex work? You can get help, for example when finding new work or applying for benefits. Organizations like P&G292 (Amsterdam), Belle (Utrecht), SPOT46 (The Hague), and Door2Door (Rotterdam) can help.

Do you have a question about your work or are you looking for care? In every region, different care providers offer their services, including care, workshops, and legal support.

Have you experienced violence and want to warn colleagues? Ugly Mugs NL is an online platform for sex workers where you can report violence, access warnings about dangerous clients and check on new clients.

Do you have a question or complaint about an organization? Submit it to the organization, or go to the Complaints Desk at sekswerk.info for help finding a solution.

Treat sex workers with respect for a safe and enjoyable experience for both of you. Make good agreements and respect boundaries.

Never pay in advance to anyone other than the sex worker (exceptions are licensed companies). As soon as intermediaries are involved in the payment, there is a risk of scams. If you have been scammed, report it to the police or Meld Misdaad Anoniem.