German Bundestag chair Julia Klöckner condemned current sex‑work laws, called for a ban on prostitution, and described Germany as a “burdel of Europe” during the Heldinnen Award ceremony in Berlin.
Speaker Urges Ban on Sex Work
Julia Klöckner called for criminalizing sex work and the purchase of sex in an address at the Heldinnen Award ceremony in Berlin. “The award for brave women” is given to “courageous women.”
She stated, “There are no apprenticeship practices in this profession,” condemning the coexistence of sex work with women’s rights while calling the profession humiliating.
Proposes Nordic Model
Klöckner supported the Swedish and Norwegian “Nordic model,” which criminalizes clients and closes public brothels. Under the model, buying sex is illegal, while selling it is not penalized.
The approach provides support for those leaving sex work and helps them start new lives.
Accuses Germany of Being a “Burdel of Europe”
According to Klöckner, current German laws fail to protect sex workers adequately. She said the 2017 law requires registration and permits for “sex‑working” activities such as running a brothel.
She warned that brutal assaults, male domination, and coercion still occur, describing Germany as a “burdel of Europe.”
Heldinnen Award Highlights Anti‑Prostitution Efforts
The award, founded by Alice Schwarzer’s foundation and worth €10,000, honors “courageous women.” This year it recognized street workers Sabine Constabel and Cathrin Schauer‑Kelpin.
Constabel has aided women in leaving sex work for over three decades, while Schauer‑Kelpin’s Karo association combats forced prostitution, human trafficking, and child sexual exploitation.
