The goal is to further decriminalize prostitution in Amsterdam by concentrating it around a limited number of streets and banning criminal elements from the profession. As a result, some windows were closed since then. In the meantime, the working women became more outspoken. Their mission is to empower and advocate for the rights of adult entertainment workers, and to create a safe and dignified work environment for all. Amsterdam's city government believes that it is essential to ensure safe, healthy working conditions and more independence for sex workers in Amsterdam.
To fight abuse more effectively, more insight is needed into the nature and scope of prostitution in Amsterdam. This approach is described in local legislation, in the Amsterdam Municipal Ordinance. The first and most important step has been to ensure an effective licensing system. Between and , all businesses active in the sex industry in Amsterdam were required to apply for a new license.
To receive a license, establishments must have an approved business plan on file that details measures for providing safe, hygienic working conditions for their sex workers and ensuring that they are healthy and independent. Additional licensing requirements include proper business administration, rental conditions, intake, and supervision.
In Amsterdam, legal forms of prostitution are divided into the following categories:. Amsterdam has three window prostitution zones. While permits will no longer be granted for new window establishments, escort agencies with no permanent address can still apply for a license. Resources have also been made available for tackling illegal prostitution in the city. Illegal prostitution refers to any form of prostitution that is required to have a license under the Amsterdam Municipal Ordinance APV but does not have one.
This can include prostitution that takes place in private residences if multiple sex workers are employed in the same house or in massage parlors, as well as certain types of illegal escort services.
