Diakonie Deutschland has called for better support and advice for people engaged with sex work, and has stated that a proposed sex work ban is not the right approach as it worsens the situation of workers and makes them more vulnerable. 

The proposed ban would mean a departure from the current legal framework that has decriminalised and regulated sex work in Germany and would impact the rights of sex workers to access health care and protection from violence, exploitation and discrimination. Maria Loheide, Head of Social Policy at Diakonie Deutschland, explained that they will support sex workers – both men and women- in finding solutions in order to improve their situation, strengthen their rights, ensure good health care as well as a better criminal prosecution of human trafficking. “Exit programs must be increased and young people must be made aware through prevention. We are also calling for a round table with sex workers, politicians, the government, local authorities, associations and self-advocates on how to improve the situation and to provide advice”, added Loheide.  

Eurodiaconia and its members have been actively engaged in the EU debate on the quality of social services with the aim to support people’s accessibility to these services. With the EU facing increasing demand for social benefits and funding, our work will continue to encourage cooperation between our members, exchanging best practices and experiences to improve the provision and delivery of social services across Europe.  

Find out more at: https://www.diakonie.de/