Netherlands 🇳🇱

Country District Guide

The Netherlands pioneered the global legalization of prostitution, becoming the first European country to fully regulate the industry in October 2000. Historically, sex work was tolerated dating back to the Middle Ages, with formal registration systems introduced under Napoleonic rule in 1810. Following a period of criminalization under the 1911 Morality Laws, the late 20th century saw a return to pragmatic tolerance, culminating in the lifting of the brothel ban. Today, the Dutch model aims to protect workers by treating prostitution as a legal profession under municipal control, requiring sex workers to register with the Chamber of Commerce and pay income tax, while heavily combating human trafficking.