Exploiting the poor – sex slavery in Europe | DW Documentary

The first paragraph discusses the grim reality of sex trafficking in Europe, particularly focusing on women from impoverished backgrounds in Bulgaria who are lured to Germany with promises of a better life, only to be forced into sex work. It highlights the brutal methods used by traffickers to control their victims, including threats, violence, and psychological manipulation. The narrative also introduces Julia Wege, who runs an advice and support center called 'Amalie' in Mannheim, offering assistance to women seeking to escape sex work. The experiences of two women, Sascha and Eli, who managed to escape with Julia's help, are shared to underscore the harrowing conditions they faced.

Paragraph two delves into the physical and psychological consequences faced by sex workers, with a focus on Sandra, who was born from rape and later suffered further abuse. The narrative includes insights from Wolfgang Heide, a gynecologist volunteering at Amalie, who discusses the common health issues faced by sex workers, such as infections and emotional trauma. The paragraph also touches on the societal attitudes towards sex work and the challenges of changing these perceptions. It outlines the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sex industry, leading to the trafficking of women back to their home countries where they face further hardship.

The third paragraph shifts the focus to Romania, where organizations like ARAS provide essential supplies to sex workers and advocate for their rights. It tells the story of Mirela, who has been in sex work for a decade due to lack of alternative employment. Dan Popescu from ARAS emphasizes the need for the European Union to support victims, especially those trafficked back to Romania. The narrative also recounts the traumatic experiences of Liliana, a minor who was trafficked and later found refuge and support at 'Generatie Tanara,' a shelter established by Mariana Petersel to help rebuild the lives of sex slaves.

Paragraph four highlights the efforts of Manfred Paulus, a retired police chief from Germany, who collaborates with organizations to combat sex trafficking. It discusses the annual trips to eastern Europe to educate children about the realities of life in western countries and the risks of falling prey to traffickers. The narrative also addresses the legal complexities in Germany, where sex work is considered a voluntary service, making it challenging to prosecute traffickers. Manfred Paulus argues for a shift towards the Scandinavian model, which criminalizes the act of purchasing sex.

The fifth paragraph paints a picture of the dire circumstances that drive individuals into the hands of traffickers, particularly in rural Romania and Bulgaria. It follows Mariana Petersel's efforts to locate a trafficked girl who has returned to Romania, illustrating the desperation and lack of opportunities that lead to exploitation. Despite the closure of brothels during the pandemic, the sex trade persists through online platforms. The narrative also underscores the importance of trust in building relationships with sex workers to encourage them to leave the trade and provide testimonies against traffickers.

The final paragraph critiques the German Prostitution Act, which, while intending to protect sex workers, has inadvertently complicated the fight against human trafficking. It discusses the police's shift in strategy to engage with sex workers and gain their trust, facilitated by organizations like Amalie. The narrative features the city's police chief, Andreas Stenger, who has firsthand experience with sexual exploitation cases and is working to help women exit the sex trade. The paragraph concludes with a call for a change in legislation to target clients of coerced sex workers, similar to the Scandinavian approach, and a tribute to the resilience and strength of women like Sascha and Eli, who have escaped sexual slavery with the help of Amalie.