Demand for Better Resources to Exit Prostitution Echoed
The Amalie shelter for sex workers is demanding better funding for programs aimed at aiding women leaving the industry. According to the center's director, Astrid Fehrenbach, the state of Baden-Württemberg only covers 40% of eligible expenses, with the provider picked up by the remaining 60%. Fehrenbach expressed her desire for the state to shoulder the full funding burden.
An all-encompassing nationwide exit program, funded entirely by the state, would be a dream scenario, Fehrenbach said, during the 10-year anniversary of the facility in Mannheim. This program would offer women a structured means of leaving prostitution, provided by secure housing, medical care, psychosocial assistance, temporary residence permits, and job counseling.
Since 2023, the state has allocated funding for 11 initiatives that support leaving prostitution or aid victims of violence. The nearly three-million-euro funding is split between the European Social Fund (around 2.1 million euros) and state funds (around 750,000 euros). Amalie is among the institutions receiving support.
Since its inception, the contact point has offered psychosocial assistance, basic medical care, and exit support to those affected for a decade. The center is supported by the City of Mannheim, the Ministry of Social Affairs, and the Diakonisches Werk.
Despite progress, the lack of comprehensive funding for sex work exit programs remains a hurdle. A better state-funded national exit program would be more effective in providing stable housing, health insurance, counseling, temporary residence rights, and employment assistance for women exiting prostitution.
Enrichment Insights
Funding challenges for exit programs supporting women leaving prostitution are prevalent around the world. Organizations like the Women's Prison Association (WPA) leverage a combination of funding sources, including private donors, governmental agencies, and various health and welfare institutions. However, maintaining consistent and comprehensive funding remains a challenge.
Advocates such as Naomi’s House emphasize the importance of comprehensive, trauma-informed services, including faith-based support and ongoing care. A holistic approach, incorporating case management, skills development workshops, family programming, and peer support, is encouraged to help women set and achieve goals while building community support.
Gender-specific programming is also advocated, involving crafting funding proposals that cater to women's unique concerns in supporting sex workers trying to leave the industry. The partial decriminalization model, allowing for accountability while providing opportunities for survivors, is an alternative to more controversial proposals, such as outright legalization.
