View source for Prostitution in Europe

{{Short description|none}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}}
[[File:Prostitution in Europe.svg|thumb|right|300px|{{legend|#336699|Abolitionism{{dash}}Prostitution legal and unregulated, excluding organized activities such as brothels and pimping. }}
{{legend|#ff7f00|Neo-abolitionism{{dash}}Illegal to buy sex and for 3rd party involvement, legal to sell sex}}{{legend|#00ffff|Decriminalization{{dash}}No criminal penalties for prostitution}}
{{legend|#008000|Legalization{{dash}}Prostitution legal and regulated}}
{{legend|#FF0000|Prohibitionism{{dash}}Prostitution illegal}}
{{legend|#585858|Legality varies with local laws}}]]
[[File:Red-light district of Amsterdam by day. 2012.JPG|thumb|right|250px|[[De Wallen]], [[Amsterdam]]'s [[red-light district]], offers activities such as legal [[Prostitution in the Netherlands|prostitution]] and a number of [[coffee shops]] that sell [[marijuana]]. It is one of the main tourist attractions.]]
[[File:Sex worker statue Oudekerksplein Amsterdam.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Bronze statue ''Belle'' in front of the [[Oude Kerk (Amsterdam)|Oude Kerk]] by Els Rijerse. The inscription reads: "Respect sex workers all over the world."]]
The legality of '''prostitution in Europe''' varies by country.

Some countries outlaw the act of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money, while others allow [[prostitution]] itself, but not most forms of [[procuring (prostitution)|procuring]] (such as operating [[brothel]]s, facilitating the prostitution of another, deriving financial gain from the prostitution of another, soliciting/loitering).

In 10 European countries ([[Belgium]], [[Germany]], [[Netherlands]], [[Austria]], [[Switzerland]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Greece]], [[Hungary]], [[Latvia]], and [[Turkey]]), prostitution is [[regulated prostitution|legal and regulated]].

[[Prostitution in Belgium|Belgium]] became the first country in Europe to [[Decriminalization of sex work|decriminalize]] sex work since 1 June 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=LOI – WET |url=https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/cgi_loi/change_lg.pl?language=nl&la=N&cn=2022032101&table_name=wet |access-date=25 June 2022 |website=www.ejustice.just.fgov.be}}</ref>

The degree of enforcement of the anti-prostitution laws varies by country, by region, and by city. In many places, there is a big discrepancy between the laws which exist on the books and what happens in practice.

Depending on the country, various prostitution-related activities may be prohibited (where a specific law forbids such activity), decriminalized (where there is no specific law either forbidding or allowing and regulating the activity), or regulated (where a specific law explicitly allows and regulates the activity if certain conditions are met). Activities which are subject to the prostitution laws include: selling and buying sexual services, soliciting in public places, running brothels, deriving financial gain from the prostitution of another, offering premises to be used for prostitution etc. Often, the prostitution laws are not clear-cut, and are subject to interpretation, leading to many legal [[loophole]]s. While the policy regarding adult prostitution differs by country, [[child prostitution]] is illegal throughout Europe. Similarly, [[human trafficking]], forced prostitution, and other abusive activities are also prohibited.

The legal and social treatment of prostitution differs widely by country. Very [[Permissive society|permissive]] prostitution policies exist in the Netherlands and Germany, and these countries are major destinations for international [[sex tourism]]. [[Amsterdam]]'s prostitution windows are famous all over the world. In Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Northern Ireland, France and Ireland, it is illegal to pay for sex, but not to be a prostitute (the [[Client (prostitution)|client]] commits a crime, but not the prostitute).<ref>{{cite web|title=Nordic Model|url=http://humanrightslawyers.eu/human-trafficking/nordic-model/|website=Human Rights Lawyers|access-date=14 April 2018}}</ref> Other countries which have restrictive prostitution policies and officially affirm an anti-prostitution stance are Great Britain, Denmark and Finland. In countries such as Spain, Italy, and the Czech Republic, attitudes are more ''[[laissez-faire]]'' and tolerant, but prostitution is not officially recognized as a job, and not officially and legally regulated, and pimping is forbidden.

__TOC__
{{clear}}

==Central-Eastern Europe==

===Armenia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Armenia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Armenia}}
Prostitution in [[Armenia]] is illegal<ref name="stats">{{cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/125553.html|title=Prostitution statistics in Armenia|access-date=24 December 2016}}</ref> under [[administrative law]]<ref name="ency">{{cite book|last1=Ditmore|first1=Melissa Hope |title=Encyclopedia of prostitution and sex work|url=https://archive.org/details/encyclopediapros00ditm_518|url-access=limited|date=2006|publisher=Greenwood Press|location=Westport, Conn.|isbn=978-0313329685|page=[https://archive.org/details/encyclopediapros00ditm_518/page/n121 90]}}</ref> (Article 179.1).<ref>{{cite web|title=Republic of Armenia Law Enforcement Anti-Trafficking Training Needs Assessment|url=http://www.osce.org/yerevan/30894?download=true|website=[[Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe]]|access-date=19 January 2018|date=December 2007}}</ref> Related activities such as running a brothel and pimping are prohibited by the Criminal Code,<ref name="chartsbin" /><ref name="criminal">{{cite web|title=Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia|url=https://prostitution.procon.org/sourcefiles/ArmeniaCriminalCode.pdf|publisher=National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia|access-date=19 January 2018|date=18 April 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722092011/http://prostitution.procon.org/sourcefiles/ArmeniaCriminalCode.pdf|archive-date=22 July 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> although there are known to be brothels in the capital, [[Yerevan]], and in [[Gyumri]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Dudwick|first1=Nora |last2=Gomart|first2=Elizabeth|last3=Marc|first3=Alexandre|last4=Kuehnast|first4=Kathleen|title=When things fall apart : qualitative studies of poverty in the former Soviet Union|url=https://archive.org/details/whenthingsfallap00nora|url-access=limited|date=2003|publisher=World Bank|location=Washington, DC|isbn=9780821350676|page=[https://archive.org/details/whenthingsfallap00nora/page/n154 138]}}</ref> According to [[UNESCO]], since the collapse of the [[Soviet Union]] in 1991, prostitution in the country has grown.<ref name="hovhannisyan">{{cite web|title=Proposed to legalize prostitution in Armenia|url=https://report.az/en/region/proposed-to-legalize-prostitution-in-armenia/|website=Report News Agency|access-date=19 January 2018|language=en|date=14 June 2015}}</ref> There are about 5,600 women involved in prostitution in Armenia,<ref name="unaids" /> roughly 1,500 of them are in Yerevan.<ref name="state9">{{cite web|title=Armenia 2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/j/drl/rls/hrrpt/2009/eur/136018.htm|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=19 January 2018|date=11 March 2010}}</ref> However, official police figures are far lower, for example 240 in 2012.<ref name="stats" /> Police and other safety forces reportedly tolerate prostitution.<ref name="state9" /> Many women turn to prostitution due to unemployment.<ref name="iwpr">{{cite web|url=https://iwpr.net/global-voices/armenia-women-driven-prostitution|title=Armenia: Women Driven into Prostitution|access-date=24 December 2016}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Azerbaijan===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Azerbaijan}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Azerbaijan}}
Prostitution in [[Azerbaijan]] is illegal<ref name="admin">{{cite web|title=The Code of the Azerbaijan Republic On administrative violations|url=http://www.parliament.am/library/varchakaniravaxaxtumner/Azrbaijan.pdf|publisher=National Assembly of Armenia|access-date=15 February 2018}}</ref> but common.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sex-tourism in Azerbaijan: an Arabian summer|url=https://jam-news.net/?p=58286|website=JAM News|access-date=15 February 2018|date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180216025623/https://jam-news.net/?p=58286|archive-date=16 February 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> Prostitution is an administrative offence and punishable by a fine.<ref name="admin" /> Keeping a brothel is a criminal offence and punishable by up to 6 years imprisonment.<ref>{{cite web|title=Criminal Code of the Azerbaijan Republic|url=http://www.wipo.int/edocs/lexdocs/laws/en/az/az017en.pdf|publisher=National Assembly of the Azerbaijan Republic|access-date=15 February 2018}}</ref> In 2017 a draft law proposing to add heavy fines to the punishment for keeping a brothel was before the [[National Assembly (Azerbaijan)|National Assembly]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Azerbaijan to impose heavy fines for prostitution and gambling|url=http://en.apa.az/azerbaijan-politics/domestic-news/azerbaijan-to-impose-heavy-fines-for-prostitution-and-gambling.html|website=APA Information Agency|access-date=15 February 2018|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180216025746/http://en.apa.az/azerbaijan-politics/domestic-news/azerbaijan-to-impose-heavy-fines-for-prostitution-and-gambling.html|archive-date=16 February 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> It has been estimated that there are 25,054 prostitutes in Azerbaijan,<ref name="unaids" /> some of which are aged 15  – 18.<ref>{{cite web|title=Prostitution gets younger in Azerbaijan|url=https://news.am/eng/news/73832.html|website=News AM|access-date=15 February 2018|language=en|date=12 September 2011}}</ref> 
{{clear}}

===Belarus===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Belarus}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Belarus}}
Prostitution is illegal<ref name="chartsbin" /><ref name="ency" /> in [[Belarus]] but commonplace<ref>{{cite web|last1=Preiherman|first1=Yauheni|title=Minsk Police Cracks Down On Prostitution in Elite Clubs|url=https://belarusdigest.com/story/minsk-police-cracks-down-on-prostitution-in-elite-clubs/|website=BelarusDigest|access-date=1 February 2018|date=13 June 2012}}</ref> and is an administrative, rather than criminal, offence.<ref name="chartsbin" /><ref name="ency" /> Running a brothel is forbidden and engaging in other means of pimping are punishable by up to 10 years in prison.<ref>{{cite web|title=On Amending Certain Codes of the Republic of Belarus to Increase Liability for Human Trafficking and Other Related Offences|url=http://www.osce.org/odihr/20922?download=true|publisher=Republic of Belarus|access-date=1 February 2018|date=April 2003}}</ref> UNAIDS estimated there were 22,000 sex workers in Belarus in 2016.<ref name="unaids">{{cite web |title=Sex workers: Population size estimate – Number, 2016 |url=http://www.aidsinfoonline.org/gam/stock/shared/dv/PivotData_2018_7_22_636678151733621264.htm |website=www.aidsinfoonline.org |publisher=UNAIDS |access-date=21 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604174922/http://www.aidsinfoonline.org/gam/stock/shared/dv/PivotData_2018_7_22_636678151733621264.htm |archive-date=4 June 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Bulgaria===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Bulgaria}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Bulgaria}}
Prostitution itself is legal, but organised prostitution (brothels, prostitution rings, or other forms of procuring) is prohibited.<ref name="state.gov">{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100552.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights in Bulgaria |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> Because of poor socioeconomic conditions, a high number of [[Romani people|Romani]] women are involved in prostitution.<ref name="state.gov"/><ref>{{cite news|author=Libby Gomersall|title= Reading Room: Bulgaria's working girls|work=[[The Sofia Echo]]|date=13 August 2007|url= http://sofiaecho.com/2007/08/13/655260_reading-room-bulgarias-working-girls|access-date=7 October 2011}}</ref>

Bulgaria originally gained a reputation as a transit country for human trafficking, but subsequently, it has become known as a destination where the sex trade takes place.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78805.htm|title=Country Report on Human Rights in Bulgaria|date=6 March 2007|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref><ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web|url=http://sofiaecho.com/2003/09/04/633579_fighting-the-sex-trade|title=Fighting the Sex Trade|author=Elena Kodinova|date=4 September 2003|website=sofiaecho.com|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>

The Bulgarian government has stepped up its efforts to eradicate human trafficking.<ref name=autogenerated2 /> The sex trade is a major source of income for Bulgarian criminals.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3071975|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151210195041/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3071975/|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 December 2015|title=Country report: Bulgaria|author=David Binder|date=3 March 2004|website=NBC News|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4532617.stm | work=BBC News | title=Sex trade's reliance on forced labour | date=12 May 2005 | access-date=22 May 2010 | first=Jorn | last=Madslien}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.reuters.com/article/email/idUSL1291056220071212 | work=Reuters | title=Crime gangs make billions from Bulgaria sex slaves | date=12 December 2007}}</ref> In 2013 there were 20,000 Bulgarian prostitutes working abroad and this was a source of foreign exchange earnings for Bulgaria.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.novinite.com/articles/159277/Thank+God+For+Bulgarians+Abroad|title=Thank God For Bulgarians Abroad|author=Georgi Papakochev|date=26 March 2014|website=novinite.com|access-date=2 November 2015|via=Deutsche Welle}}</ref>
In the past, the Bulgarian government considered fully legalizing and regulating prostitution.<ref>{{cite news|author=Nicholas Kulish|url=http://www.rapereliefshelter.bc.ca/learn/news/bulgaria-moves-away-legalizing-prostitution|title=Bulgaria moves away from legalising prostitution|newspaper=International Herald Tribune|publisher=Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter|date=5 October 2007|access-date=28 November 2015}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Czech Republic===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Czech Republic}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br />Buying sex legal<br />Brothels illegal<br />Procuring illegal<br />Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in the Czech Republic}}

In the [[Czech Republic]], prostitution is legal, but brothels and other forms of procuring are prohibited. The enforcement of these laws is lax, and prostitution and other activities which surround it are very common in the country.

Ever since the [[Velvet Revolution]] in [[Czechoslovakia]] in 1989 led to the creation of the two independent states [[Czech Republic]] and [[Slovakia]], prostitution has been flourishing, and has contributed its share to the region's booming tourist economy. It is widespread in [[Prague]] and areas near the Republic's borders with Germany and Austria. In 2002, the Czech Statistical Bureau estimated the trade to be worth six billion [[Czech koruna]] ($217 million) a year.<ref name="Mark McDaid">{{cite web|url=http://www.iamexpat.nl/read-and-discuss/expat-page/news/legal-age-for-prostitution-raised-Amsterdam|title=Legal age for prostitution raised in Amsterdam|author=Mark McDaid|date=8 March 2013|website=IamExpat|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Georgia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Georgia (country)}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Georgia (country){{!}}Prostitution in Georgia}}
In [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], prostitution is illegal<ref name="chartsbin" /> but widespread, particularly in the capital, [[Tbilisi]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Morrison|first1=Thea|title=PM Addresses Alleged Prostitution and Discrimination at Tbilisi Nightclubs|url=http://georgiatoday.ge/news/5574/PM-Addresses-Alleged-Prostitution-and-Discrimination-at-Tbilisi-Nightclubs-|website=Georgia Today on the Web|access-date=18 February 2018|date=11 January 2017}}</ref> Many [[NGO]]'s attribute this to the harsh economic conditions according to the [[US State Department]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100560.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Georgia |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> Prostitution occurs on the streets,<ref>{{cite web|title=Georgia|url=http://swannet.org/en/countries/georgia|website=SWAN|access-date=18 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> in bars, nightclubs,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Mielnikiewicz|first1=Justyna|last2=Rimple|first2=Paul|title=Georgia: Teenage Prostitution Part of a Bigger Problem|url=https://eurasianet.org/s/georgia-teenage-prostitution-part-of-a-bigger-problem|website=Eurasianet|access-date=18 February 2018|language=en|date=1 August 2014}}</ref> hotels and brothels.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Kharshiladze|first1=Giorgi|last2=Ghudushauri|first2=Giorgi|title=No comment – What happens outside Tbilisi's brothels|url=https://www.georgianjournal.ge/society/29339-no-comment-what-happens-outside-tbilisis-brothels.html|website=GeorgianJournal|access-date=18 February 2018|date=15 January 2015}}</ref> UNAIDS estimate there are 6,525 prostitutes in Georgia.<ref name="unaids" />

The [[Black Sea]] resorts, especially Gonio, become a sex tourism destination in the summer months. many prostitutes, mainly [[Central Asia]]n and from the [[North Caucasus]] come to the area. Due to the close proximity of the Turkish border, and no visa requirements for Turks, many men from Turkey come to the area to find prostitutes.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Imedaishvili|first1=Nata|title=Locals Helpless As Sex Tourism Hits Georgian Black Sea Village|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/locals-helpless-as-prostitutes-take-over-georgian-village/24638723.html|website=RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty|access-date=18 February 2018|language=en|date=8 July 2012}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Hungary===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Hungary}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Hungary}}

Prostitution is legal and regulated in Hungary. (It has been legalized and regulated by the government since 1999.) Under the law, prostitutes are professionals who engage in sexual activities in exchange for money. The government allows this activity as long as they pay taxes and keep legal documents.

In 2007, the prostitution and [[pornography]] industry in Hungary was estimated by Hungary's tax authority APEH to generate $1 billion annually.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gorondi|first1=Pablo|title=Hungary Gives Permits to Prostitutes|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/24/AR2007092400842.html|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=17 December 2017|date=24 September 2007}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Kazakhstan===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Kazakhstan}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Kazakhstan}}
In [[Kazakhstan]] prostitution itself is legal, but acts facilitating prostitution, such as operating a [[brothel]] or prostitution ring, are illegal. Forced prostitution and prostitution connected to organized crime are prohibited. NGOs reported that criminal prostitution rings often included local law enforcement officials.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100615.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Kazakhstan |publisher=US Department of State |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=12 January 2017}}</ref>

Estimates of the number of prostitutes in Kazakhstan vary from 4,000<ref name="eurasianetkaz" /> and 25.000,<ref>{{cite web |url= http://swannet.org/node/556 |title= Prostitution in Kazakhstan: abuse and risk |last= Aliya |date= 28 August 2007 |website= SWAN |access-date= 20 November 2017 }}</ref> including a number from [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Ukraine]].<ref name="eurasianetkaz">{{cite web |url= http://www.eurasianet.org/node/80201 |title= Kazakhstan: Sex Workers Call for Legalization of Prostitution |last= Emrich-Bakenova |first= Saule |date= 18 August 2016 |website= EurasiaNet |access-date= 19 November 2017 }}</ref>

Sex workers often face harassment, extortion, [[arbitrary arrest and detention|arbitrary arrest]], rape and violence from the police.<ref name="spl" />
{{clear}}

===Moldova===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Moldova}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Moldova}}
Prostitution in [[Moldova]] is an illegal activity but is widespread<ref name="welcome">{{cite web |url= https://www.welcome-moldova.com/articles/prostitution.shtml |title= Prostitution: Prosperous Purgatory |last= Mamaliga |first= Ludmila |website= Welcome Moldova |access-date= 2 December 2017 }}</ref> and socially acceptable.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/dec/02/anthonybrowne.theobserver |title= Drugs push scarred land to the brink |last= Browne |first= Anthony |date= 2 December 2001 |website= The Guardian |access-date= 1 December 2017 }}</ref>

Morals Police captain Vladimir Istrati is quoted as saying "Prostitution in Moldova is a very well organised crime, there is a precise structure of operation which includes secretary, office, and owner." The secretary is hard to file evidence against because they are most likely to conceal their true activity behind offering exotic services over the phone. Nailing down prostitutes and pimps is easier."<ref name="welcome" />
{{clear}}

===Poland===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Poland}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Poland}}

In [[Poland]] prostitution is legal, but operating brothels or other forms of pimping or coercive prostitution and prostitution of minors are prohibited, as is living off someone else's prostitution.<ref>[http://isap.sejm.gov.pl/DetailsServlet?id=WDU19970880553 Kodeks Karny Art. 204].</ref>

Prostitution is present in various forms in the country and a 2007 US State Department report stated that many women who worked as prostitutes were employed in massage parlors and escort services that functioned as brothels, although technically illegal.<ref name=izdebski>[http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/MeetingAbstracts/ma?f=102232814.html Izdebski Z, Boron-Kaczmarska A; International Conference on AIDS. New prostitution phenomena in Poland. Int Conf AIDS. 1998; 12: 1159-60 (abstract no. 60869)] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110211215515/http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/MeetingAbstracts/ma?f=102232814.html |date=11 February 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100578.htm |title=2007 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices in Poland |publisher=US State Department |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref>
Prostitution is the only profession in Poland that is not taxed, but sex workers may be asked by authorities to prove that is what they do, since prostitution is not recognized as legitimate work, and therefore receive no social benefits.
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wbj.pl/article-53241-poles-claim-prostitution-for-tax-purposes.html?typ=ise|title=Poles claim 'prostitution'- for tax purposes. Warsaw Business Journal Feb 14 2011}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Romania===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Romania}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Romania}}
Prostitution in [[Romania]] is not itself criminalized, although associated activities, such as [[Procuring (prostitution)|procuring]], are criminal offenses, and [[solicitation]] is a contravention punishable by fines.

Solicitation is an administrative offence (''contravenție'') punishable by a fine of 500–1500 [[Romanian leu|lei]] (approximately 110–330 [[euro]]s as of 2016).<ref>{{cite web|title=Romania|url=http://swannet.org/en/countries/romania|website=SWAN|access-date=24 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> The National Police, Local Police and Gendarmes are all responsible for enforcing the laws, although there are reports that law enforcement is corrupt and that police are often violent.<ref name="spl">{{cite web|title=Sex Work Law – Countries|url=http://spl.ids.ac.uk/sexworklaw/countries|website=Sexuality, Poverty and Law|access-date=24 February 2018|language=en}}</ref>

Clients are not prosecuted, unless they knowingly use the services of a victim of [[forced prostitution]],<ref name=autogenerated1>{{Cite web | url=https://legeaz.net/noul-cod-penal/art-216 |title = Art. 216 Noul Cod Penal Folosirea serviciilor unei persoane exploatate Traficul şi exploatarea persoanelor vulnerabile}}</ref> or the prostitute is a minor (Art. 216''1'').<ref name=autogenerated1 />

Article 213<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://legeaz.net/noul-cod-penal/art-213 |title = Art. 213 Noul Cod Penal Proxenetismul Traficul şi exploatarea persoanelor vulnerabile}}</ref> criminalizes procuring; it states that "The causing or facilitation of the practice of prostitution or the obtaining of financial benefits from the practice of prostitution by one or more individuals shall be punishable by no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of imprisonment and a ban on the exercise of certain rights." In certain aggravated circumstances, the punishment increases. The penal code also criminalizes several offenses against [[slavery]], [[human trafficking]], [[child trafficking]], [[forced labour]], and using [[Exploitation of labour|exploited persons]] (Art. 182 ''Exploitation of a person'', Art. 209 ''Slavery'', Art. 210 ''Trafficking in human beings'', Art. 211 ''Trafficking in underage persons'', Art. 212 ''Pressing into forced or compulsory labor'', Art. 216 ''Use of an exploited person's services'').<ref name="legeaz.net">{{cite web|url=http://legeaz.net/noul-cod-penal/|title=Noul Cod Penal actualizat 2017 – Legea 286/2009|website=legeaz.net|access-date=2 October 2017}}</ref>

===Russia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Russia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Russia}}
Prostitution is an administrative, but not criminal, offence in Russia (such as, for example, drinking beer in a public place or walking nude on the street). The maximum punishment is a [[Fine (penalty)|fine]] up to 2000 [[Russian ruble|rubles]] (~$30); however, organising prostitution or engaging somebody into prostitution is punishable by a prison term.
{{clear}}

===Slovakia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Slovakia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
Prostitution itself is legal, but operating brothels and other activities related to prostitution are prohibited.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100584.htm |title=Country Reports on Human Rights Practices in the Slovak Republic |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> Public order offences are used against women who work on the streets.<ref name="spl" />
{{clear}}

===Ukraine===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Ukraine}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Ukraine|Child prostitution in Ukraine}}

Prostitution is illegal in [[Ukraine]], but is nevertheless widespread and largely ignored by the government.<ref name="usds" /> Laws criminalizing organised prostitution and penalties for human trafficking have had little effect because many convicted traffickers often do not end up serving prison time.  The economic decline in Ukraine made the nation vulnerable and forced many to depend on prostitution and trafficking as a source of income.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theadvocatesforhumanrights.org/uploads/traffickingreport_2.pdf |title=Appendix I |website=Theadvocatesforhumanrights.org |access-date=22 November 2016}}</ref> Sex tourism rose as the country attracted greater numbers of foreign tourists.<ref name="usds">{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78846.htm|title=US Department of State: Ukraine|website=State.gov|access-date=4 April 2010|date=6 March 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2012/apr/24/kiev-beautiful-women-sex-industry-ukrainian|title=Welcome to Kiev: city of beautiful women and a prospering sex industry|last=Antonova|first=Natalia|date=24 April 2012|work=The Guardian|location=London}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Northern Europe==

===Denmark===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Denmark}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Denmark}}
In [[Denmark]], prostitution was partly decriminalized in 1999, based partly on the premise that it was easier to police a legal trade than an illegal one. Third-party activities, such as profiting from brothel administration and other forms of procuring, remain illegal activities in Denmark, as do pimping and prostitution of minors.<ref name=statedep07>{{Cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100556.htm |title=Country Reports on Human Rights 2007: Denmark |publisher=US State Department |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/30/sex-trafficking-countries-take-different-approaches-to-same-problem/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715015944/http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/30/sex-trafficking-countries-take-different-approaches-to-same-problem/|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 July 2012|title=The battle against sex trafficking: Sweden vs. Denmark |publisher=CNN|date=30 March 2011 |access-date=30 May 2012}}</ref>

====Faroe Islands====
Under [[Courts of Denmark|Danish Jurisdiction]], the legal status of prostitution remains lawful. However, there is no evidence of organised prostitution within the self-governing territory.
{{clear}}

===Estonia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Estonia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Estonia}}
Prostitution in [[Estonia]] is legal in itself, but organized prostitution is illegal.  Since prostitution is a sensitive indicator that develops with changes in the social environment and the state, it is useful to divide the history of this phenomenon from Estonia's first independence according to the different historical stages of the country.<ref>{{cite news|title=Prostitution in Estonia |work=EQUAL |url=http://www.tai.ee/failid/Prostitution_in_Estonia._ingl.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930213904/http://www.tai.ee/failid/Prostitution_in_Estonia._ingl.pdf |archive-date=30 September 2011 }}</ref>

Firstly, the period of [[Estonian War of Independence|Estonian independence]] 1918–1940, when the prostitution in Estonia was legalized. Secondly, the period of the [[Occupation of the Baltic states|Soviet occupation]] when prostitution was criminalized. Thirdly, since [[Singing Revolution|Estonian new independence]] when prostitution is neither criminalized nor legalized (that is, the selling of and buying of a sexual service is not a crime but prostitution is not considered a profession either).
{{clear}}

===Finland===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Finland}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Finland}}
Prostitution itself is legal in Finland (soliciting in a public place is illegal), but organised prostitution, operating a brothel or a prostitution ring, and other forms of [[Procuring (prostitution)|pimping]]) is illegal. In June 2006, [[Eduskunta|parliament]] voted by 158 to 15 with four abstentions to approve a bill which outlaws the buying of sexual services from prostitutes if it is linked to human trafficking. According to a recent [[TAMPEP]] study, 69% of prostitutes are foreigners. As of 2009, there was little "visible" prostitution in Finland, as it was mostly limited to private residences and nightclubs in larger metropolitan areas.
{{clear}}

===Iceland===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Iceland}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex illegal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Iceland}}
Paying for sex is illegal in [[Iceland]] (the client commits a crime, but the prostitute does not).<ref name="jafnretti.is">{{cite web |url=http://www.jafnretti.is/jafnretti/?D10cID=ReadNews&ID=523 |title=Jafnréttisstofa |publisher=Jafnretti.is |date=21 April 2009 |access-date=31 March 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150709124826/http://www.jafnretti.is/jafnretti/?D10cID=ReadNews&ID=523 |archive-date=9 July 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>  The police have stated that they do not have the resources to enforce the law. Consequently, a vigilante group called "Stóra systir" ("Big Sister") has been formed.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.icelandreview.com/icelandreview/daily_news/Big_Sister_Watches_Buyers_of_Prostitution_in_Iceland_0_383393.news.aspx |title=Big Sister Watches Buyers of Prostitution in Iceland |publisher=Iceland Review |date=19 October 2011}}</ref>

A report published in 2017 by the ''National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police'' states that prostitution had "exploded" in the previous 18 months.<ref name="icemon">{{cite web|title=Organized Crime and Prostitution on the rise in Iceland|url=https://icelandmonitor.mbl.is/news/politics_and_society/2017/10/26/organized_crime_and_prostitution_on_the_rise_in_ice/|website=Iceland Monitor|access-date=2 February 2018|date=26 October 2017}}</ref> The vast majority of prostitutes in the country are foreign.<ref name="icemon" /> Police believe prostitution in Iceland is partially tied to [[organised crime]] and human trafficking.<ref name="icemon" />

The country has become a sex tourism destination.<ref name="icerev">{{cite web|last1=Hafstað|first1=Vala|title=Sex Tourism a Problem in Iceland|url=http://icelandreview.com/news/2015/08/26/sex-tourism-problem-iceland|website=Iceland Review|access-date=2 February 2018|language=en|date=26 August 2015|archive-date=2 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202130530/http://icelandreview.com/news/2015/08/26/sex-tourism-problem-iceland}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Tourism pushing up demand for sex workers in Iceland |url=https://icelandmonitor.mbl.is/news/politics_and_society/2016/04/13/tourism_pushing_up_demand_for_sex_workers_in_icelan/ |website=Iceland Monitor |access-date=7 March 2019 |date=12 April 2016}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Ireland===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Ireland}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex illegal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in the Republic of Ireland}}
Prostitution itself is legal in Ireland, however since March 2017, it has been an offence to buy sex.<ref name="enact">{{cite news|last1=Edwards|first1=Elaine|title=Minister for Justice signs new laws on sexual offences|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/minister-for-justice-signs-new-laws-on-sexual-offences-1.3026288|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=14 April 2018|date=27 March 2017}}</ref> Third party involvement such as operating brothels, and other forms of pimping, are also illegal.<ref name="clsoa93">{{cite web|title=Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act, 1993|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1993/act/20/enacted/en/html|website=electronic Irish Statute Book (eISB)|language=en}}</ref> Although the 2017 law criminalising clients was designed to reduce the demand for prostitution,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Farrell|first1=Alan|title=Opinion: Buying a woman's body for sexual gratification is not a harmless act|url=http://www.thejournal.ie/readme/sex-workers-in-ireland-1896233-Jan2015/|website=TheJournal.ie|access-date=14 April 2018|language=en|date=25 January 2015}}</ref> the law has had little effect.<ref>{{cite web|last1=MacNamee|first1=Garreth|title=Buying sex has been illegal in Ireland for one year but 'very little' has changed|url=http://www.thejournal.ie/sex-workers-ireland-laws-3865840-Feb2018/|website=TheJournal.ie|access-date=14 April 2018|language=en|date=23 February 2018}}</ref>

Most prostitution in [[Republic of Ireland|Ireland]] occurs indoors and is advertised via the internet. [[Street prostitution]] has declined considerably.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gallagher|first1=Conor|title='It's clearly a brothel, yet nothing can be done'|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/it-s-clearly-a-brothel-yet-nothing-can-be-done-1.3168979|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=14 April 2018|date=29 July 2017}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Latvia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Latvia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Latvia}}
Prostitution is legal and regulated in [[Latvia]]. Prostitutes must register, must undergo monthly health checks, and must carry a health card; if they fail to do so, they can be penalized.<ref name="vvc.gov.lv">{{cite act|url=http://www.vvc.gov.lv/export/sites/default/docs/LRTA/MK_Noteikumi/Cab._Reg._No._32_-_Restriction_of_Prostitution.doc|title=Regulations Regarding Restriction of Prostitution|format=doc|type=Regulation|number=32||date=22 January 2008|access-date=10 October 2017}}</ref> Although prostitution is regulated in Latvia, brothels and other forms of procuring are illegal. According to the law, "Any activity of the third person which promotes prostitution is prohibited", and, "Persons are prohibited to join in groups in order to offer and provide sexual services".<ref name="vvc.gov.lv"/>
{{clear}}

===Lithuania===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Lithuania}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Lithuania}}
Prostitution in [[Lithuania]] is illegal, but it is common.<ref name="chartsbin">{{cite web |url= http://chartsbin.com/view/snb |title= The Legal Status of Prostitution by Country |website= Charts Bin |access-date= 27 November 2017 }}</ref><ref name="procon">{{cite web|title=100 Countries and Their Prostitution Policies|url=https://prostitution.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000772#greece|website=Procon|access-date=21 February 2018}}</ref> Law enforcement is weak,<ref name="spl" /> corrupt<ref name="ipf" /> and is reputedly connected to [[organised crime]].<ref name="spl" /> It is estimated that there are 3,000 prostitutes in the capital [[Vilnius]].<ref name="ipf">{{cite web|title=Lithuania|url=http://www.policy.hu/kalikov/LITHUANIA.html|website=International Policy Fellowship|access-date=21 February 2018}}</ref> Many of them are foreign, predominantly [[Russia]]n, but there are also significant numbers from [[Belarus]], [[Ukraine]] and [[Poland]].<ref name="ipf" /> [[Street prostitution]], including underage prostitutes,<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Chaplinskas|first1=S.|last2=Mårdh|first2=P. A.|title=Characteristics of Vilnius street prostitutes|pmid=11231871|journal=International Journal of STD & AIDS|volume=12|issue=3|pages=176–180|doi=10.1258/0956462011916983|date=2001|s2cid=22094445}}</ref> is generally controlled by criminal elements.<ref name="ipf" />
{{clear}}

===Norway===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Norway}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex illegal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Norway}}
Paying for sex is illegal (the client commits a crime, but the prostitute does not). This law prohibiting the buying of sexual services (sexkjøpsloven) came into effect on 1 January 2009, following the passing of new legislation by the [[Storting]] in November 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/7806760.stm |title=New Norway law bans buying of sex. BBC News Jan 1 2009 |work=BBC News |date=1 January 2009 |access-date=18 October 2013}}</ref> Soliciting and advertising "sexual services" is also illegal under the Norwegian Criminal Code (''Straffeloven'') section 378 and section 202(3).<ref>[http://nppr.se/2011/10/07/the-sale-of-sexual-services-in-norway-legal-but-still-illegal/ The sale of sexual services in Norway: legal, but still illegal? Sunniva Schultze-Florey. Nordic Prostitution Policy Reform. 7 July 2011] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20131226161851/http://nppr.se/2011/10/07/the-sale-of-sexual-services-in-norway-legal-but-still-illegal/ |date=26 December 2013 }}</ref>

In 2013, it was estimated there were 3,000 sex workers<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nrk.no/norge/sexarbeider-tapte-parole-kampen-1.11520429|title=Sexarbeider tapte parole-kampen|last=NRK|date=5 February 2014}}</ref> working in Norway<ref name=taxing/> ([[Demographics of Norway|population]] 5 million).<ref>[http://www.ssb.no/a/english/kortnavn/folkendrkv_en/2012k4/hittil00-en.html Population per 1 January 2013 and population changes in 2012. Counties] SSB, retrieved 14 September 2013</ref> Earnings from sex trade are estimated at 390 million [[Norwegian krone|kroner]] (£39m, $US63m, €48m).<ref name=taxing>{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/a-taxing-issue-for-norways-sex-workers-8861316.html|title=A taxing issue for Norway's sex workers|website=[[Independent.co.uk]] |date=6 October 2013}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Sweden===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Sweden}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex illegal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Sweden}}
Paying for sex is illegal (the client commits a crime, but not the prostitute). The Sex Purchase Act (Not an act of its own, but rather an amendment to the criminal code, commonly knows as ''Sexköpslagen''), which makes it illegal to pay for sex, but not to be a prostitute, was adopted in 1999, and was then unique. Since then, similar laws have been passed in [[Norway]] and [[Iceland]].

The rationale underpinning the law was the view that prostitution was a form of [[violence against women]] so the crime consists in the customer paying for sex, not in the prostitute selling sexual services.<ref>{{cite web|author=Jean-Michel |url=http://sisyphe.org/spip.php?article1424 |title=Sweden Treating Prostitution as Violence Against Women |publisher=Sisyphe.org |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> This 'rationale' sees the seller of sex as the exploited partner in the exchange.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/3926/a/47455 |title=Chapter 6 of the Swedish Penal Code 1962:700 |publisher=Sweden.gov.se |access-date=15 August 2012}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===United Kingdom===
{{Infobox
| abovestyle       = background:#cfc;
| subheaderstyle   = align-left
| above            = {{Flagu|United Kingdom}}
| subheader        = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal (except in Northern Ireland)<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in the United Kingdom}}
In [[Great Britain]], prostitution itself is legal,<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7736436.stm | work=BBC News | title=Q&A: UK Prostitution Laws | date=19 November 2008 | access-date=22 May 2010 | first=Dominic | last=Casciani}}</ref> but a number of related activities, including soliciting in a public place, [[Kerb crawler|kerb crawling]], keeping a brothel, [[Procuring (prostitution)|pimping]], and [[Procuring (prostitution)|pandering]], are outlawed.

The [[Policing and Crime Act 2009]] makes it illegal to pay for sex with a prostitute who has been "subjected to force", and this is a ''strict liability offence'' (clients can be prosecuted even if they didn't know the prostitute was forced).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2009/ukpga_20090026_en_4#pt2-pb1-l1g14 |title=Policing and Crime Act 2009 |publisher=Opsi.gov.uk |access-date=15 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nodo50.org/Laura_Agustin/unworkable-ways-to-stop-trafficking-uk-law-on-exploitation-and-gain |title=Policing and Crime &#124; UK &#124; Anti-trafficking &#124; Exploitation &#124; Sex Industry &#124; The Naked Anthropologist |publisher=Nodo50.org |date=6 April 2010 |access-date=15 August 2012}}</ref>

In [[Northern Ireland]], which previously had similar laws to the rest of the United Kingdom, paying for sex became a crime when the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 was became law in June 2015.<ref>{{Cite news|url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-30805990|title = Human Trafficking Bill receives Royal Assent|date = 14 January 2015|work = BBC News|access-date = 27 January 2015}}</ref>

====Guernsey====
{{main|Prostitution in the Crown dependencies#Bailiwick of Guernsey}}
Prostitution in Guernsey is legal, but related activities such as [[solicitation]]<ref>{{cite web|title=The Summary Offences (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 1982|url=http://www.guernseylegalresources.gg/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=71011&p=0|website=Guernsey Legal Resources|access-date=19 February 2018}}</ref> and [[brothel]] keeping are prohibited.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ordonnance relative aux Maisons de Prostitution et aux Prostituées – [1906]|url=http://www.guernseylegalresources.gg/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=98780&p=0|website=Guernsey Legal Resources|access-date=19 February 2018}}</ref> At the end of the 19th century [[prostitution]] was common in [[Guernsey]], especially in [[St Peter Port]] where around 500 soldiers were garrisoned. A large number of the prostitutes were [[France|French]].

====Isle of Man====
{{main|Prostitution in the Crown dependencies#Isle of Man}}
Prostitution is legal in the Isle of Man but related activities such as soliciting, [[procuring (prostitution)|procuring]] and brothel keeping are prohibited by the Sexual Offences Act 1992.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sexual Offences Act 1992|url=http://www.legislation.gov.im/cms/images/LEGISLATION/PRINCIPAL/1992/1992-0006/SexualOffencesAct1992_1.pdf|website=Isle of Man Legislation|access-date=19 February 2018}}</ref>

There are few prostitutes permanently on the [[Isle of Man]], most visiting the island on short term "tours". A man and a woman were arrested on suspicion of committing prostitution offences in [[Douglas, Isle of Man|Douglas]] in 2013. A police spokesman said this was "an unusual and rare incident."<ref>{{cite web|title=Pair arrested over prostitution offences {{!}} Isle of Man News :: isleofman.com|url=http://www.isleofman.com/news/details/57787/pair-arrested-over-prostitution-offences|website=IsleOfMan.com|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en|date=3 September 2013}}</ref>

====Jersey====
{{main|Prostitution in the Crown dependencies#Bailiwick of Jersey}}
Prostitution in Jersey is legal,<ref name="itv">{{cite web|title=Jersey hotels warned of the signs of prostitution|url=http://www.itv.com/news/channel/2015-02-05/jersey-hotels-warned-to-look-out-for-prostitution/|website=ITV News|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en|date=5 February 2015}}</ref> but related activities such as keeping a brothel are outlawed.<ref name="beeb">{{cite web|title=Prostitution laws 'could be updated'|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-32789334|website=BBC News|access-date=19 February 2018|date=19 May 2015}}</ref><ref name="jep">{{cite web|title=Fall in number of prostitutes advertising in Jersey|url=https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2015/02/06/fall-in-number-of-prostitutes-advertising-in-jersey/|website=Jersey Evening Post|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en|date=6 February 2015}}</ref> Following a consultation period from 1 September 2017 and 13 October 2017, the Home Affairs Minister approved a new draft Sexual Offences (Jersey) Law to be debated in the [[States of Jersey|Assembly of the States of Jersey]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Sexual Offences Draft Law|url=https://www.gov.je/News/2018/Pages/Sexualoffenceslaw.aspx|website=Information and public services for the Island of Jersey|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> The draft law does not criminalise prostitution, but consolidates previous legislation on related activities.<ref>{{cite web|title=Consultation draft – Sexual Offences (Jersey) Act|url=https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Government%20and%20administration/Consultation%20Draft%20-%20Sexual%20Offences%20(Jersey)%20Law%20201-%20(002)%20V2.pdf|website=Information and public services for the Island of Jersey|access-date=19 February 2018}}</ref>

In 2015 it was estimated there were 35–40 prostitutes in [[Jersey]].<ref name="itv" /> Most visit the island for short periods and work from hotels.<ref name="jep" />

==Southern Europe==

===Albania===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Albania}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Albania}}
Prostitution in [[Albania]] is illegal but widespread.<ref name="chartsbin" />

Prior to the [[Dissolution of the Soviet Union|collapse of the Soviet Union]] in the early 1990s, prostitution in Albania was virtually unknown. The migration from rural areas to the cities, and economic problems that followed the collapse caused some women to turn to prostitution.<ref name="swan">{{cite web|title=Sex Work in Albania – an Overview|url=http://swannet.org/node/1041|website=SWAN|access-date=14 February 2018|language=en|date=1 October 2006}}</ref>

Street prostitution occurs near the centre of the capital, [[Tirana]], mainly by [[Romani people|Roma]] men and women.<ref name="swan" /> Some students work as prostitutes from hotels or motels in Tirana and other big cities. Brothels also found in the cities.<ref name="swan" />
{{clear}}

===Andorra===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Andorra}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
Prostitution in [[Andorra]] is illegal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100545.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Andorra |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Bosnia and Herzegovina===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Bosnia and Herzegovina}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
Prostitution in [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] is legal, but related activities such as solicitation and keeping a brothel are illegal.<ref name="spl" /> The law treats procuring as a major crime. Under the law, trafficking is a state-level crime that carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100551.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> In 2016, [[UNAIDS]] estimated there to be 4,000 prostitutes in the country.<ref name="unaids" />
{{clear}}

===Croatia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Croatia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Croatia}}
Prostitution in [[Croatia]] is illegal,<ref name="spl" /> but common.<ref name="procon" /> Forcible prostitution, any kind of brothels, or procuring are treated as felony, while voluntary prostitution is considered to be infraction against public order (for prostitutes only; clients are not in violation of law). As in other Southeast European countries, the problem of human trafficking for the purposes of sex is a concern in Croatia. However, according to the [[United States Department of State]], Croatia was a tier 1 country as of 2011, actively working to prevent the sex trade.<ref name=TIPreport2011>{{cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2011/|title=Trafficking in Persons Report 2011|publisher=U.S. Department of State|year=2011|access-date=20 June 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119045221/http://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2011/|archive-date=19 January 2012}}</ref><ref name=croatia_illegal>{{cite web| url = https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78806.htm| title = Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Croatia| date = 6 March 2007| access-date = 10 October 2008| website = [[United States Department of State]]}}</ref><ref name=bulgaria_trafficking>{{cite web| url = http://www.sofiaecho.com/article/mixed-results-against-people-trafficking-in-south-eastern-europe/id_29987/catid_68| title = Mixed results against people trafficking in South-Eastern Europe| date = 17 June 2008| last = Leviev-Sawyer| first = Clive
| access-date = 10 October 2008| website = SofiaEcho.com}}</ref> As of 2021 report, Croatia has been placed in tier 2 since 2013.<ref name=TIPreport2021>{{Cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/reports/2021-trafficking-in-persons-report/|title=Trafficking in Persons Report 2021|publisher=U.S. Department of State|year=2021|access-date=7 April 2022}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Cyprus===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Cyprus}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Cyprus}}
The law does not prohibit prostitution itself, but operating [[brothels]], organizing prostitution rings, living off the profits of prostitution, encouraging prostitution or forcing a person to engage in prostitution are illegal activities.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100554.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Cyprus |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref>

Cyprus has been criticised by the US State Department <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXH6mQ9yWUU |title=Cyprus's Struggle with the Sex Trade |website=[[YouTube]] |date=28 March 2008 |access-date=26 May 2008 }}</ref> for failing to control the flow of illegal immigrants and legal to be involved in forced prostitution. Cyprus has gained a reputation for being a major transit point for people smugglers to transport women for the purposes of prostitution. International observers have criticized the government for its lack of action to prevent forced prostitution. The law of Cyprus forbids forced (but not voluntary) prostitution. However, it is believed that many immigrants are hired as barmaids and coerced into prostitution by this method.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>
{{clear}}

====Northern Cyprus====
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Northern Cyprus}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
The [[Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus]] is only recognised as a separate state by [[Turkey]]. Prostitution is illegal, however in nightclubs, "konsomatrices", who sit with, eat with or entertain customers for money are allowed. Konsomatrices are not allowed to have sex with customers, but this restriction is frequently flouted.<ref>{{Cite news|title= Sex Work and State Regulations in North Cyprus |last1= Rodrígueza |first1= Leopoldo |last2= Güven-Lisaniler |first2= Fatma |last3= Uðural
 |first3= Sevin |publisher= The Pennsylvania State University |citeseerx= 10.1.1.691.6938 }}</ref> Enforcement is generally lax, but in July 2006 the Nicosia District Court ordered the first prostitution-related imprisonment. After pleading no contest to the charges, the manager of Mexico nightclub, Mesut Kilicarslan, was sentenced to 15 days in prison for encouraging and profiting from prostitution. By the year's end three more suspects were sentenced to imprisonment for encouraging and profiting from prostitution.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>

Northern Cyprus has become a destination for [[sex tourism]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.cyprusupdates.com/2011/06/sex-tourism-is-booming-in-northern-cyprus/ |title= Sex tourism is booming in Northern Cyprus |date= 7 June 2011 |website= Cyprus Updates |access-date= 25 November 2017 }}</ref>

===Gibraltar===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Gibraltar}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in the British Overseas Territories#Gibraltar}}
Prostitution is illegal in Gibraltar, as are related activities.<ref>{{cite web|title=Crimes Act 2011|url=http://www.gibraltarlaws.gov.gi/bills/bills2011/2011B07.pdf|website=HM Government of Gibraltar|access-date=25 February 2018}}</ref> Prior to its abolition in 1992 prostitution was concentrated in the red-light district of Seruya's Ramp.<ref name="gib2">{{cite web|last1=Chipulina|first1=Neville|title=The People of Gibraltar – 1885 – James Joyce – Molly Bloom's Gibraltar – Part 3|url=http://gibraltar-intro.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/1885-james-joyce-molly-blooms-gibraltar_83.html|website=Gibraltar Intro|access-date=25 February 2018}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Greece===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Greece}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Greece}}
Prostitution is legal at the age of 18. Persons engaged in prostitution must register at the local prefecture and carry a medical card that is updated every two weeks. Greek authorities decided to implement a 1999 law which stipulates that all brothels must have permits.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2002/18368.htm|title=Greece: Country Reports on Human Rights Practices|date=31 March 2003|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref> It is estimated that fewer than 1,000 women are legally employed as prostitutes and approximately 20,000 women, most of foreign origin, are engaged in illegal prostitution.<ref name="state1">{{cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2008/eur/119082.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090226175151/http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2008/eur/119082.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 February 2009 |title=2008 Human Rights Report: Greece |publisher=State.gov |date=25 February 2009 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/9707/04/greece.albania.prostitutes/index.html | work=CNN | title=Albanians muscling in on Greek prostitutes | access-date=22 May 2010}}</ref> According to NGO estimates, there are 13,000-14,000 trafficking victims in the country at any given time. Major countries of origin for trafficking victims include Nigeria, Ukraine, Russia, Bulgaria, Moldova and Belarus.<ref name="state1"/>
{{clear}}

===Italy===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Italy}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation legal in certain areas
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Italy}}
[[File:10.3010 Torino-nightlife.v2.jpg|thumb|left|250px|A street prostitute talking to a potential customer in [[Torino]], Italy, 2005]]
In [[Italy]], prostitution, defined as the exchange of sexual acts for money, is legal, although organized prostitution, whether indoors in brothels or controlled by third parties, is prohibited. Brothels were banned in 1958. Individual sex workers working from apartments are "tolerated". Loitering is permitted, but soliciting ("unabashedly inviting clients on the street") is illegal. Migrants with work or residence permits may work in sex work, and police cannot revoke residence permits and begin deportation procedures, as they tried failing by the Italian laws{{what?|date=January 2025}}.

A 2008 report stated that were some 100,000 prostitutes in Italy.<ref name="itmag091008">{{cite web |url=http://www.italymag.co.uk/italy/crime/government-set-approve-anti-prostitution-bill |title=Government set to approve anti-prostitution bill |website=Italy Magazine |date=10 September 2008 |access-date=19 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913013833/http://www.italymag.co.uk/italy/crime/government-set-approve-anti-prostitution-bill |archive-date=13 September 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
In 2007 it was stated that the total number of workers was 70,000.<ref>{{cite web|author=in: Hot Issues |url=http://www.impactlab.com/2007/01/26/70000-prostitutes-in-italy |title=70,000 Prostitutes in Italy |publisher=Impact Lab |date=26 January 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stranitalia.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=148&Itemid=1 |title=Italy preparing to punish prostitutes and their clients |publisher=Stranitalia.com |date=13 September 2008}}</ref>
The Italian Statistics Institute stated the number of street workers in 1998 was 50,000.<ref name="dantuono">{{cite journal|author1=A D'Antuono |author2=F Andalò |author3=E M Carlà |author4=S De Tommaso |url= |title=Prevalence of STDs and HIV infection among immigrant sex workers attending an STD centre in Bologna, Italy. D'Antuono A, Andalò F, Carlà EM, De Tommaso S. Sex Transm Infect. 2001 Jun;77(3):220 |issue=3 |pages=220 |journal=Sexually Transmitted Infections |volume=77 |date=2 February 2001|doi=10.1136/sti.77.3.220 |pmid=11402236 |pmc=1744297 }}</ref>

A [[euphemism]] often used to refer to prostitutes in Italy is ''Lucciole'' (lit. "[[fireflies]]").
{{clear}}

===Kosovo===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Kosovo}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Kosovo}}
Prostitution in [[Kosovo]] is illegal, and can incur a prison sentence of up to sixty days.<ref name="peace">{{cite web|title=Law on Public Peace and Order|url=https://www.kuvendikosoves.org/common/docs/ligjet/2009-142-eng.pdf|publisher=Assembly of Republic of Kosovo|access-date=18 March 2018|date=17 September 2009}}</ref> [[The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria]]'s HIV Program in Kosovo estimated there to be 5,037 prostitutes in the country.<ref name="selmani">{{cite web|last1=Selmani|first1=Arber|title=How Kosovo's Unregulated Sex Industry is a Danger to Public Health|url=http://balkanist.net/sex-workers-in-kosovo/|website=Balkanist|access-date=18 March 2018|date=25 June 2016}}</ref> Many women turn to [[prostitution]] through poverty.<ref name="selmani" /> There are report that prostitution has become a new [[organised crime]] in Kosovo.<ref>{{cite web|title = Kosovo: Prostitution As A New Organized Crime Sideline|date = 21 June 2013|url = https://reportingproject.net/occrp/index.php/en/ccwatch/cc-watch-briefs/1998-kosovo-prostitution-as-a-new-organized-crime-sideline}}</ref>

Prior to the [[Kosovo War]] following the [[2008 Kosovo declaration of independence]], prostitution was limited to serving the needs of locals.<ref name="beeb19">{{cite web|title=Kosovo UN troops 'fuel sex trade'|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3686173.stm|website=BBC|access-date=18 March 2018|date=6 May 2004}}</ref> Following the ceasefire and presence in the country of the [[United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo]] and other international organisations, the demand for prostitution soared. As well as women turning to prostitution voluntarily, some were trafficked from Moldova, Bulgaria and Ukraine.<ref name="beeb19" />
{{clear}}

===Malta===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Malta}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Malta}}
Prostitution itself is legal,<ref name="times2">{{cite web|last1=Attard|first1=Eddie|title=Past laws regulating the oldest profession in Malta|url=https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140316/life-features/Past-laws-regulating-the-oldest-profession-in-Malta.511052|website=Times of Malta|access-date=23 February 2018|date=16 March 2014}}</ref> but certain activities connected with it, such as running a brothel and loitering, are not. Certain offences are punishable by sentences of up to two years in prison.<ref name="state2">{{cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2008/eur/119092.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090226175106/http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2008/eur/119092.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 February 2009 |title=2008 Human Rights Reports: Malta |publisher=State.gov |date=25 February 2009 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref>

In March 2008, police and the Ministry for Social Policy signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize a screening process for all arrested persons engaged in prostitution to determine whether they were victims of trafficking or other abuses.<ref name="state2"/> The law provides punishments of up to 6 years for involving minors in prostitution.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.interpol.int/public/Children/SexualAbuse/NationalLaws/csaMalta.asp|archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20010927021208/http://www.interpol.int/public/children/sexualabuse/nationallaws/csamalta.asp|url-status=dead|archive-date=27 September 2001|title=Sexual Offences Laws – Malta|website=interpol.int|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Montenegro===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Montenegro}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
Prostitution in [[Montenegro]] is illegal.<ref name="chartsbin" />

Montenegro is a source, transit, and destination country for women and children subjected to sex trafficking. Victims of sex trafficking identified in Montenegro are primarily women and girls from Montenegro, neighbouring Balkan countries, and, to a lesser extent, other countries in Eastern Europe. Sex trafficking victims are exploited in hospitality facilities, bars, restaurants, night clubs, and cafes.<ref name="state17">{{cite web|title=Montenegro 2017 Trafficking in Persons Report|url=https://www.state.gov/j/tip/rls/tiprpt/countries/2017/271246.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703181407/https://www.state.gov/j/tip/rls/tiprpt/countries/2017/271246.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 July 2017|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=23 February 2018}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===North Macedonia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|North Macedonia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in North Macedonia}}
Prostitution in [[North Macedonia]] is legal, though with various restrictions,<ref name="spl" /> and common.<ref name="swannet-mac">{{cite web|title=Macedonia|url=http://swannet.org/en/countries/macedonia|website=SWAN|access-date=22 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> [[UNAIDS]] estimated that there were 3588 prostitutes in the country in 2016.<ref name="unaids" /> In 2003 North Macedonia's government was reported to be trying to reduce [[sex trafficking]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.peacewomen.org/news/Macedonia/newsarchive03/sextrade.html|title=Sex Slave Racket Clampdown in Macedonia<!-- Bot generated title -->|website=peacewomen.org|access-date=10 October 2017|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20040125004655/http://www.peacewomen.org/news/Macedonia/newsarchive03/sextrade.html |archive-date= 25 January 2004 }}</ref>

STAR-STAR (an association for the support of marginalised workers) is a sex-worker-led support group. Its executive board is exclusively made up of sex workers. STAR-STAR was the first sex workers' collective in the [[Balkans]].<ref name="swannet-mac" />

The country is a major transit point for prostitution to the west.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78826.htm|title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Macedonia|date=6 March 2007|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Gall |first=Carlotta |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F01E5DF133DF93BA15754C0A9679C8B63 |title=Macedonia Village Is Center Of Europe Web in Sex Trade – NYTimes.com |work=New York Times |date=28 July 2001 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> In 2003 it was reported that the trafficking of women from the Balkans to Western Europe for sex was worth billions of dollars, with the beneficiaries including the Albanian [[National Liberation Army (Macedonia)|National Liberation Army]] in North Macedonia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3071971|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426215233/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3071971/|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 April 2014|title=Sex, drugs and guns in the Balkans|author1=David Binder|author2=Preston Mendenhall|date=10 December 2003|publisher=NBC News|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Portugal===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Portugal}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Portugal}}

In Portugal, prostitution itself is legal, but it is illegal for a third party to profit from, promote, encourage or facilitate the prostitution of another.<ref>[http://www.archividelnovecento.it/archivinovecento/CAPPATO/Cappato/Faldone59-7Dirittiumani/prostituzione/seminarioPE/prostitution-PT.pdf Archivi Archivi del Novecento: Prostitution in Portugal{{dash}}The legal framework] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722024156/http://www.archividelnovecento.it/archivinovecento/CAPPATO/Cappato/Faldone59-7Dirittiumani/prostituzione/seminarioPE/prostitution-PT.pdf |date=22 July 2011 }}</ref> Consequently, organized prostitution ([[brothel]]s, prostitution rings or other forms of [[Procuring (prostitution)|pimping]]) is prohibited.<ref>[https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100579.htm U.S. Departement of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, ''2007 Country Report on Human Rights in Portugal'']: "Pimping and running brothels are illegal and legally punishable".</ref><ref name="IES">[http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/portugal.html#8 Nuno Nodin et al. International Encyclopedia of Sexuality: Portugal. 8. Significant Unconventional Sexual Behaviors] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130316221829/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/portugal.html |date=16 March 2013 }}</ref> Forced prostitution and human trafficking are also illegal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100579.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Portugal |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref>

In the mid-2000s, the number of female prostitutes was estimated at 28,000, of which at least 50% were foreigners.<ref name="prostitution CM">{{in lang|pt}} João Saramago, [http://www.correiomanha.pt/noticiaImprimir.asp?idCanal=186&id=153608 Estrangeiras dominam prazer], [[Correio da Manhã (Portugal)|Correio da Manhã]] (17 March 2005)</ref><ref name="ex.ac.uk prostitution in Portugal">{{cite web|url=http://www.people.ex.ac.uk/watupman/undergrad/aac/port.htm|title=Sex work and Sexual Exploitation in the European Union – The Situation in Portugal|website=ex.ac.uk|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===San Marino===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|San Marino}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
Prostitution in [[San Marino]] is illegal,<ref name="chartsbin" /> and is not commonplace.<ref>{{cite web|title=San Marino Country Reports on Human Rights Practices – 2006|url=https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/pages/attachments/2016/02/08/dos-hrr_2006_san-marino.pdf|publisher=US Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor|access-date=24 February 2018|date=6 March 2007}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Serbia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Serbia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
Prostitution in [[Serbia]] is illegal, and can incur a prison sentence of up to 30 days, and up to 60 days for minors. Pimping is illegal and can incur a prison sentence of between 6 months and 5 years, and between 1 and 10 years for pimping minors.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.blic.rs/vesti/politika/iskreno-ruzic-za-blic-legalizujte-prostituciju-politicari-redovno-idu-kod-prostitutki/zfdk9by|title=ISKRENO Ružić za "Blic": Legalizujte prostituciju, političari redovno idu kod prostitutki|language=sr|trans-title=HONESTY Ružić to "Blic": Legalize Prostitution, Politicians go to Prostitutes Rregularly|author1=Zorica Lazarević |author2=Miljana Leskovac|date=3 January 2015|newspaper=Blic}}</ref> UNAIDS estimate there to be 3,901 prostitutes in the country.<ref name="unaids" />

Following a large police action against prostitution in Belgrade's major hotels in late September 2017, [[Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government (Serbia)|Minister of Public Administration and Local Self-Government]] [[Branko Ružić (politician)|Branko Ružić]] voiced support for legalizing and regulating prostitution.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.informer.rs/vesti/drustvo/153861/PROSTITUCIJU-SRBIJI-TREBA-LEGALIZOVATI-Ministar-Branko-Ruzic-okrio-kako-drzava-profitira-najstarijeg-zanata|title=PROSTITUCIJU U SRBIJI BI TREBALO LEGALIZOVATI! Ministar Branko Ružić otkrio kako da država PROFITIRA OD NAJSTARIJEG ZANATA!|language=sr|trans-title=PROSTITUTION IN SERBIA SHOULD BE LEGALIZED! Minister Branko Ružić reveals how the state would PROFIT FROM IT!|date=26 September 2017|newspaper=Informer}}</ref> [[Serbian Radical Party]] president [[Vojislav Šešelj]] supported the proposal, under the condition that prostitutes undergo regular health checks for [[Sexually-transmitted Disease|sexually transmitted diseases]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.informer.rs/vesti/drustvo/153982/RADIKALNO-SESELJ-LEGALIZACIJU-PROSTITUCIJE-Lider-SRS-podrzava-inicijativu-ministra-Branka-Ruzica|title=RADIKALNO! I ŠEŠELJ JE ZA LEGALIZACIJU PROSTITUCIJE! Lider SRS podržava inicijativu ministra Branka Ružića!|language=sr|trans-title=RADICAL! ŠEŠELJ IS FOR THE LEGALIZATION OF PROSTITUTION! SRS leader supports the initiative of Minister Branko Ružić!|date=27 September 2017|newspaper=Informer}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Slovenia===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Slovenia}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
Prostitution in [[Slovenia]] was decriminalised in June 2003.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last= Ramet |editor1-first= Sabrina P. |editor2-last= Fink-Hafner |editor2-first= Danica |date= 1 October 2006 |title= Democratic Transition in Slovenia: Value Transformation, Education, and Media |publisher= Texas A&M University Press |page= 223 }}</ref> Forcing others into prostitution is an offence under Article 175 of the Criminal Code.<ref>{{cite web|title=Criminal Code|url=http://www.wipo.int/edocs/lexdocs/laws/en/si/si045en.pdf|website=[[World Intellectual Property Organization]]|access-date=17 April 2018}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Spain===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Spain}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal in certain areas
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Spain}}

Prostitution itself is legal in Spain, but [[pimping]] is not. Owning an establishment where prostitution takes place is legal if the owner neither derives financial gain from prostitution nor ''hires'' any person for the purposes of selling sex, because prostitution is not considered a job, and has no legal recognition. Most places do not regulate prostitution, but the government of Catalonia offers licenses for persons "to gather people to practice prostitution".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/6-23-2006-100298.asp |title=Europe's Brothel – in a Corner of Spain |publisher=Buzzle.com |access-date=16 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012084435/http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/6-23-2006-100298.asp |archive-date=12 October 2008 |url-status=usurped }}</ref> 
These licenses are used by brothel owners to open 'clubs', where prostitution takes place (the women are theoretically only 'gathered' to work on the premises not employed by the owner). Some places have implemented [[fine (penalty)|fines]] for street prostitution.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.typicallyspanish.com/news/publish/article_23597.shtml |title=Granada brings in hefty fines for street prostitution |publisher=Typicallyspanish.com |date=22 October 2009 |access-date=16 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315113402/http://www.typicallyspanish.com/news/publish/article_23597.shtml |archive-date=15 March 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.expatica.com/es/news/local_news/Seville-to-follow-Catalan-lead-with-bid-to-regulate-prostitution.html |title=Seville to follow Catalan lead with bid to regulate prostitution |publisher=Expatica.com |access-date=16 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120925003706/http://www.expatica.com/es/news/local_news/Seville-to-follow-Catalan-lead-with-bid-to-regulate-prostitution.html |archive-date=25 September 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Turkey===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Turkey}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Procuring illegal<br>Condoms mandatory<ref>{{cite web |last1=Özaşçılar |first1=Mine |last2=Ziyalar |first2=Neylan |title=Framing Prostitution in Turkey: News Media Coverage of Prostitution |url=http://www.sascv.org/ijcjs/pdfs/mineneylanijcjs2015vol10issue2.pdf |publisher=International Journal of Criminal Justice Sciences (IJCJS) |access-date=16 July 2018 |date=2015}}</ref> 
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Turkey}}

In Turkey, prostitution is legal and regulated. Prostitutes must register and acquire an ID card stating the dates of their health checks. Also, it is mandatory for registered prostitutes to have regular health checks for sexually transmitted diseases. The police are allowed to check the authenticity of registered prostitutes to determine whether they have been examined properly and to ensure they see the health authorities if they don't. Men cannot register under this regulation. Most sex workers, however, are unregistered, as local governments have made it a policy not to issue new registrations. As a result, most sex workers in Turkey are not registered sex workers, working in violation of the law.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2002/18396.htm|title=Turkey: Country Reports on Human Rights Practices|date=31 March 2003|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/2005/06/26/news/turkey.php |title=Turkey's sex trade entraps Slavic women |publisher=International Herald Tribune |date=27 June 2005 |author=Craig S. Smith |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080604163042/http://www.iht.com/articles/2005/06/26/news/turkey.php |archive-date=4 June 2008 }}</ref> Turkey is listed by the [[United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime|UNODC]] as one of the top destinations for victims of human trafficking.<ref name="news.bbc.co.uk"/>
{{clear}}

===Vatican City===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Vatican City}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex illegal
}}

Prostitution in [[Vatican City]] is illegal and is not commonplace.
{{clear}}

==Western Europe==

===Austria===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Austria}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Procuring illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Austria}}
[[Image:Brothel-in-linz-20070628.jpg|thumb|left|Brothel in [[Linz]], the [[List of cities and towns in Austria|third-largest city]] in [[Austria]]]]
Prostitution in [[Austria]] is [[regulated prostitution|legal and regulated]] under the [[penal code]] (''Strafgesetzbuch''),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jusline.at/Strafgesetzbuch_%28StGB%29.html|title=Jusline: Strafgesetzbuch (StGB)|access-date=18 September 2014}}</ref>
under ''Zehnter Abschnitt Strafbare Handlungen gegen die sexuelle Integrität und Selbstbestimmung (§§ 201-220b)'' 
(Part Ten: Offences against sexual integrity and self-determination (§ § 201-220b)). Most sex workers are [[Immigration|migrants]].<ref name=sjoe>{{cite web|url=http://www.sjoe.at/content/frauen/themen/koerper/article/618.html|title=Sozialistische Jugend Österreich: Prostitution – zwischen Ablehnung, Marginalisierung und Akzeptanz. Interview with Eva van Rahden from SILA|publisher=[[Socialist Youth Austria]]|language=de|access-date=18 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721232836/http://www.sjoe.at/content/frauen/themen/koerper/article/618.html|archive-date=21 July 2011}}</ref>
According to a 2010 [[TAMPEP]] study, 78% of sex workers in Austria are [[Alien (law)|foreigners]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://euobserver.com/9/29340|title=EU Observer: Romanian sex workers most prevalent in EU Jan 26 2010|date=26 January 2010 |access-date=18 September 2014}}</ref>

Although sex work itself is not forbidden, Section 207b<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jusline.at/207b_Sexueller_Missbrauch_von_Jugendlichen_StGB.html|title=Sexueller Missbrauch von Jugendlichen|access-date=18 September 2014}}</ref>''Sexueller Missbrauch von Jugendlichen'' (Sexual abuse of juveniles) allows for prosecution of clients of workers younger than 18.  Additional restrictions are specified in § 214 to 217. Medical examinations are required by the AIDS and STD laws.<ref name="Sila">{{cite web|url=http://en.sophie.or.at/basic_infos/prostitutions-gesetze/laws|title=Sophie: Laws on Prostitution|access-date=18 September 2014|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130114193330/http://en.sophie.or.at/basic_infos/prostitutions-gesetze/laws|archive-date=14 January 2013}}</ref> The laws of the federal [[States of Austria]] place further restrictions on the times and places where prostitution may occur.<ref name="LG_Prostitutio">[http://homepage.univie.ac.at/elisabeth.holzleithner/LG_Prostitution.htm Landesbestimmungen zur Ausübung der Prostitution] (28 June 2007)</ref> The most restrictive law is that of [[Vorarlberg]], where prostitution is legal only in licensed brothels and to date no such licenses have been issued.<ref name="Sila"/>
{{clear}}

===Belgium===
{{Infobox
| abovestyle       = background:#cfc;
| subheaderstyle   = align-left
| above            = {{Flagu|Belgium}}
| subheader        = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Belgium}}
[[Image:Aarschotstraat.jpg|thumb|left|[[Rue d'Aerschot]], [[Brussels]], which has a portion of the street with [[Red-light district|red lights]] and prostitutes visible]]
Prostitution is decriminalized in Belgium since 1 June 2022,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 June 2022 |title=Wet decriminalisering sekswerk vanaf 1 juni in voege: "Dit is een overwinning voor de mensenrechten" |url=https://www.dewereldmorgen.be/artikel/2022/06/02/wet-decriminalisering-sekswerk-vanaf-woensdag-in-voege-dit-is-een-overwinning-voor-de-mensenrechten/ |access-date=22 June 2022 |website=DeWereldMorgen.be |language=en-US}}</ref> but the law prohibits [[pimping]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100550.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Belgium |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> or assisting immigration for the purpose of prostitution. However, in practice enforcement can be lax and "unofficial" brothels are tolerated (for example in [[Antwerp]]). Human trafficking or exploiting individuals for financial gain is punishable for a maximum prison sentence of 30 years.<ref name="dos">{{cite web |url= https://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2010/142759.htm |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100617151358/http://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2010/142759.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date= 17 June 2010 |title= Trafficking in Persons Report 2010 |date= 14 June 2010 |publisher= [[U.S. Department of State]] |access-date= 11 November 2017 }}</ref>  A recent report by RiskMonitor foundation states that 80% of the prostitutes who work as windows prostitutes in Belgium are from [[Bulgaria]].<ref>{{Cite book|title = Sex trafficking and money laundering: the case of Bulgaria|last = Petrunov|first = Georgi|publisher = Risk Monitor|year = 2009|url=http://www.riskmonitor.bg/js/tiny_mce/plugins/ajaxfilemanager/upload/Reports/RM-02-SexTrafficking_EN.pdf|pages = 16}}</ref> Belgium is listed by the [[United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime|UNODC]] as a top destination for victims of human trafficking.<ref name="news.bbc.co.uk">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/6497799.stm |title=Special Reports &#124; UN highlights human trafficking |work=BBC News |date=26 March 2007 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> Many sex workers organisations feel that the present grey area in which prostitution operates leaves sex workers vulnerable to exploitation.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.expatica.com/be/life_in.html |title=Life In Belgium |access-date=26 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120505142032/http://www.expatica.com/be/main.html |archive-date=5 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3068827.stm |title=Making Sex Pay |access-date=26 May 2008 |date= 17 July 2003| work=BBC News | first=Clare | last=Murphy}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/jun/24/andrewosborn.theobserver | work=The Guardian | location=London | title=Squalid road that leads to Belgium | first=Andrew | last=Osborn | date=24 June 2001 | access-date=22 May 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2003-11-04-beligan-brothels_x.htm | work=USA Today | title=In Belgium, brothels are big business | first1=Noelle | last1=Knox | date=4 November 2003 | access-date=22 May 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title= Belgian Experiment: Make Prostitution Legal to Fight Its Ills    |work=[[Wall Street Journal]]|url= https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB111706273289743489 |access-date=11 April 2012}}</ref>

A report commissioned by the National Bank of Belgium,<ref>{{Cite news|url = https://www.nbb.be/doc/dq/e/dq3/histo/ief0925.pdf|title = A new measure of the economic importance of prostitution in Belgium|last = National Bank of Belgium|access-date = 3 December 2015}}</ref> estimated a turnover of 840 million Euro in 2015.<ref>{{Cite news|title = A direct measure of output in prostitution in Belgium|doi = 10.13140/rg.2.1.4868.6807|last1=Adriaenssens|first1=Stef|last2=Hendrickx|first2=Jef|last3=Machiels|first3=Thomas|last4=Heylen|first4=Wim|year=2015}}</ref> The most important segments of the market seem to be escort and private prostitution, rather than the more visible forms of window or street prostitution.
{{clear}}

===France===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|France}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex illegal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in France}}
Prostitution in [[France]] (the exchange of sexual acts for money) was legal until April 2016, but several surrounding activities were illegal, like operating a brothel, living off the avails (pimping), and paying for sex with someone under the age of 18 (the [[age of consent]] for sex is 15).<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-25802279|title=Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema on trial over prostitute|date=20 January 2014}}</ref> On 6 April 2016, the French National Assembly voted to punish customers of prostitutes by a fine of €1500.<ref name="law16">[http://www.lemonde.fr/societe/article/2016/04/06/prostitution-le-parlement-adopte-definitivement-la-penalisation-des-clients_4897216_3224.html Prostitution : le Parlement adopte définitivement la pénalisation des clients] 'Le Monde', accessed 7 April 2016</ref> The law has been evaluated as a failure, putting sex workers in danger, reducing prices, and decreasing condom use among their clients.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ladepeche.fr/article/2018/04/18/2782371-prostitution-moins-de-clients-plus-de-risques.html|title=Less clients, more risk|website=La Depeche}}</ref>

In the [[Napoleonic era]], France became the model for the regulatory approach to prostitution. In the 20th century, however, a policy shift became apparent. Brothels became illegal in 1946, and France signed the [[Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others]] in 1960. France thus became a major supporter of the international abolitionist movement for the eradication of prostitution.
{{clear}}

===Germany===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Germany}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation restricted<br>Condoms mandatory<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dearden |first1=Lizzie |title=Germany makes having sex with prostitutes without condom illegal |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/germany-prostitution-law-condoms-sex-workers-bundesrat-vote-approved-date-comes-in-brothels-illegal-a7326056.html |website=The Independent |access-date=10 June 2018 |date=23 September 2016}}</ref>
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Germany}}
[[Image:Pascha Köln.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.7|[[Pascha (brothel)|Pascha brothel]] in [[Cologne, Germany]]]]
Prostitution in [[Germany]] is legal, as are all aspects of the sex industry, including brothels, advertisement, and job offers through HR companies. Full-service sex work is widespread and [[Prostitution law|regulated]] by the [[Politics of Germany|German government]], which levies taxes on it.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Act Regulating the Legal Situation of Prostitutes – implementation, impact, current developments |publisher=Social Research Institute of Applied Sciences Freiburg |url=http://www.cahrv.uni-osnabrueck.de/reddot/BroschuereProstGenglisch.pdf |access-date=4 October 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150430232956/http://www.cahrv.uni-osnabrueck.de/reddot/BroschuereProstGenglisch.pdf |archive-date=30 April 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2002, the government changed the law in an effort to improve the legal situation of sex workers. However, the social stigmatization of sex work persists and many workers continue to lead a [[double life]].<ref name=tampep>{{citation|url=http://tampep.eu/documents/wssw_2009_final.pdf|title=Final Report TAMPEP 8, Germany|work=[[TAMPEP]] reports|date=October 2009|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720173715/http://tampep.eu/documents/wssw_2009_final.pdf|archive-date=20 July 2011}}</ref>

===Liechtenstein===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Liechtenstein}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution illegal<br>Buying sex legal
}}
Prostitution in [[Liechtenstein]] is illegal, but is tolerated by the police as long as it is not [[street prostitution]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100568.htm|title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Liechtenstein|date=11 March 2008|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.interpol.int/Public/Children/SexualAbuse/NationalLaws/csaLiechtenstein.pdf |title=Legislation of Interpol member states on sexual offences against children – Liechtenstein |access-date=31 March 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070714201203/http://www.interpol.int/Public/Children/SexualAbuse/NationalLaws/csaLiechtenstein.pdf |archive-date=14 July 2007}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Luxembourg===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Luxembourg}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation restricted
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Luxembourg}}
Prostitution itself is legal in [[Luxembourg]], but activities associated with organised prostitution, such as profiting from (operating brothels and prostitution rings) or aiding prostitution, are illegal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2007/100570.htm |title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Luxembourg |publisher=State.gov |date=11 March 2008 |access-date=31 March 2010}}</ref> Human trafficking incurs severe penalties.<ref>
{{cite web |url=http://www.europarl.europa.eu/hearings/20040119/femm/document1_en.pdf |title=A summary of the prostitution regulations in the EU member states |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |website=www.europarl.europa.eu |publisher=European Parliament |access-date=13 September 2015 |quote=Luxembourg: Procuring is prohibited, and the keeping of brothels. Buying sex from children under 18 is illegal, but prostitution in itself is not criminal.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78825.htm|title=Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Luxembourg|date=6 March 2007|website=U.S. Department of State|access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref> There are estimated to be 300 [[prostitute]]s in [[Luxembourg]], most of whom are immigrants.<ref name="exeter">{{cite web|title=How many Prostitutes?|url=http://people.exeter.ac.uk/watupman/undergrad/aac/scale.htm|website=Exeter University|access-date=10 February 2018}}</ref>

Street prostitution is only permitted in two streets near [[Luxembourg City]]'s [[Luxembourg railway station|railway station]],<ref>{{cite book|last1=Schalekamp|first1=Mark|title=This is Europe|date=2016|publisher=Lulu.com|isbn=9789081656603|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=15RNDQAAQBAJ&q=street+prostitution+in+luxembourg&pg=PT96|language=en}}</ref> and only between 20:00 and 03:00. The area is regulated by the city authorities, and patrolled regularly by the police. Prostitutes working outside these streets or outside the permitted times may be arrested and fined up to €2,500. Because of the number of prostitutes and limited area to work in, some work from other streets near the legalised area and risk being arrested.<ref name="services">{{cite web|title=Sex Work|url=http://www.services4sexworkers.eu/s4swi/articles/view/id/21|website=Services4SexWorkers|access-date=21 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> 
{{clear}}

===Monaco===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Monaco}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels illegal<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation illegal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in Monaco}}
Prostitution itself is legal in Monaco, but organized prostitution (brothels, prostitution rings and other forms of [[pimping]]) is prohibited. Solicitation is also illegal. Forcing another person into prostitution is illegal, with penalties from six months to three years of imprisonment, plus a fine. A husband who forces his wife to engage in prostitution can be sentenced to one to five years of imprisonment plus a fine.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/j/drl/rls/hrrpt/2003/27855.htm|title=Monaco|website=U.S. Department of State}}</ref><ref name="mono">{{cite web|url=http://www.monacohebdo.mc/5792-prostitution%E2%80%89-pas-de-sanction-pour-les-clients|title=Prostitution?: Pas de sanction pour les clients|website=Monaco Hebdo|date=24 May 2011}}</ref>

Prostitution takes place most commonly in hotels, bars and nightclubs.<ref name="mono"/> 
{{clear}}

===Netherlands===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Netherlands}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Solicitation legal
}}
{{Main|Prostitution in the Netherlands}}
Prostitution is legal and regulated in the Netherlands. Operating a brothel is also legal. From 1 January 2022, a customer will be punished if they purchase a sexual service from a sex worker of whom they know or have serious reason to suspect that there is coercion, exploitation or human trafficking.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Zaken|first=Ministerie van Algemene|date=27 December 2021|title=Ben ik strafbaar als klant van een sekswerker die gedwongen werkt? – Rijksoverheid.nl|url=https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/prostitutie/vraag-en-antwoord/strafbaar-bij-afspreken-met-gedwongen-sekswerker|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220105094720/https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/prostitutie/vraag-en-antwoord/strafbaar-bij-afspreken-met-gedwongen-sekswerker|archive-date=5 January 2022|access-date=5 January 2022|website=www.rijksoverheid.nl|language=nl-NL}}</ref> In the last few years, a significant number of brothels and "windows" have been closed because of suspected [[criminal activity]]. [[De Wallen]], the largest and best-known red-light district in Amsterdam, is a destination for international sex tourism. In an attempt to fight abuse, the minimum age for prostitutes was raised from 18 to 21 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dutchamsterdam.nl/232-prostitutes-age-limits-amsterdam |title=Red Light District – Age Limits for prostitutes and their clients. |website=DutchAmsterdam.com |date=4 August 2007 |access-date=2 November 2015}}</ref>

Prostitution  is concentrated in and around the big cities and in the border towns in the regions of [[Limburg (Netherlands)|Limburg]], [[Groningen (province)|Groningen]], [[Twente]], [[North Brabant|West Brabant]] and [[Zeeland]]. Prostitution occurs in various forms: 'window' and street prostitution, clubs, escort agencies, and home-based prostitution. 'Window' prostitution occurs in 12 cities in the Netherlands. It is estimated that on average some 2,000 prostitutes are engaged daily in this form of prostitution. Street prostitution exists in 10 Dutch cities and involves on average some 320 prostitutes daily. Between 3,500 and 4,000 prostitutes are employed daily in 600–700 clubs and private brothels. The extent of other forms of prostitution such as escort agencies and home-based prostitution is much more difficult to estimate. Home-based prostitution occurs in at least 17 municipalities and escort agencies exist in at least 28 municipalities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rnw.nl/english/article/faq-prostitution-netherlands |title=FAQ – Prostitution in the Netherlands &#124; Radio Netherlands Worldwide |publisher=Rnw.nl |access-date=3 May 2012}}</ref>

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, all legally operating brothels in the Netherlands were closed on 15 March 2020, based on emergency orders per police district. Since the Dutch government failed to provide financial compensation for sex workers (especially those who have always paid taxes through the 'opting-in'-system), many of them were forced to continue to work, turning to illegal home-based prostitution. Christian politicians in Dutch parliament claimed they wanted to help women to escape from exploitation, but sex workers' unions angrily responded that they don't want to be 'saved' by people who would like to forbid prostitution again. The temporary ban on prostitution in the Netherlands will be lifted on 1 July 2020, but could be reinstated later, at any time a serious coronavirus outbreak would occur.

<gallery widths="180px" heights="180px">
Sex theater in Amsterdam-1.JPG|Sex theater in ''[[De Wallen]]''
Red-light district of Amsterdam by day. 2012.JPG|De Wallen, Amsterdam's [[red-light district]]
Amsterdam red light district.jpg|Locals and tourists visiting De Wallen
Prostata Prostitute.jpg|Scene from [[Amsterdam]]'s red light district
</gallery>

===Switzerland===
{{Infobox
 |abovestyle = background:#cfc;
 |subheaderstyle = align-left
 |above        = {{Flagu|Switzerland}}
 |subheader    = Prostitution legal and regulated<br>Buying sex legal<br>Brothels legal and regulated<br>Procuring illegal<br>Solicitation legal in designated areas
}}
{{main|Prostitution in Switzerland}}
Full-service sex work in [[Switzerland]] is legal and regulated; it has been legal since 1942. Trafficking, forcing people into prostitution and most forms of pimping are illegal.<ref name=Independent>{{cite news|title= Drive-in sex plan to curb prostitutes in Europe's playground  |newspaper= The Independent|date=1 August 2011|url= https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/drivein-sex-plan-to-curb-prostitutes-in-europes-playground-2330219.html|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110908061203/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/drivein-sex-plan-to-curb-prostitutes-in-europes-playground-2330219.html|url-status= dead|archive-date= 8 September 2011|location=London|first=Charlotte|last=McDonald-Gibson}}</ref> Licensed [[brothel]]s, typically with a reception and leading to several [[studio apartment]]s, are available. One estimate puts the number of street sex workers in Zurich at 5000.<ref name=Independent/>

In recent years the number of full-service sex workers has increased. Many workers operate using newspaper advertisements, [[mobile phone]]s and secondary rented apartments, some accept [[credit card]]s.
{{clear}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Prostitution|Sex work|Europe}}
* [[Prostitution by region]]
* [[Prostitution law]]
* [[Nordic Model approach to prostitution]]

{{clear}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{Continent topic| prefix = Prostituion in | title = [[Prostitution]] articles by [[continent]] }}
{{Europe in topic|Prostitution in}}
{{authority control}}

[[Category:Prostitution in Europe| ]]
[[Category:Sexuality-related lists]]