Amsterdam Plans Five-Storey Brothel Housing 100 Sex Workers

Amsterdam plans to replace its historic red-light district with a five-story 'Erotic Centre' mega-brothel in the affluent Zuid suburb, aiming to provide safer working conditions, reduce criminality, and tackle human trafficking. The proposed building, designed with 100 prostitution rooms, bars, a strip club, and additional facilities including medical and mental health services, is part of a broader effort to improve the city's image and manage issues related to tourism and noise complaints. While Mayor Femke Halsema supports the initiative as a modern solution, many sex workers and residents oppose it, criticizing the relocation for increasing stigma, risking worker safety during commutes, and stripping the charm and independence associated with the traditional red-light district. Public consultations are underway through July 2025, with financial planning and final building decisions expected by the end of 2026. Critics have labeled the project an 'erotic prison,' expressing concerns that the new site’s isolated location could lead to greater dangers, despite the city’s intentions. Supporters argue that the new center could offer more secure spaces for minority sex workers and update Amsterdam’s city center by separating sex work from its historic areas.