Freier

The term Freier colloquially refers to the client of a sex worker. The etymology traces back to the Middle High German "vrîen" (to solicit, to court). In professional discourse, the terms "Kunden" or "Klienten" are increasingly used.

In Switzerland, the use of sexual services by adult, voluntary sex workers is not punishable. The client only becomes punishable if he engages the services of minors (Art. 196 StGB) or individuals in a recognizable state of coercion (victims of human trafficking, Art. 182 StGB) — even if he only accepts the coercive situation.

Politically, there has been ongoing discussion for years about whether Switzerland should adopt the Nordic Model (prohibition of purchasing sex), which criminalizes the purchase of sexual services outright. Sex worker associations (ProCoRe, Aspasie) oppose this — it would push the industry into illegality.

See also

• Sexarbeit — The voluntary provision of sexual services for payment—legal in Switzerland since 1942.
• Sexkaufverbot — Criminal law prohibition on the purchase of sexual services — not in force in Switzerland, but politically discussed.
• Nordisches Modell — Legal model that criminalizes the purchase, but not the sale of sexual services (Sweden 1999).
• Menschenhandel — Criminal exploitation of a vulnerable situation for the purpose of sexual exploitation — Section 182 of the Swiss Criminal Code.

These definitions are intended to provide general guidance within the Swiss adult entertainment industry. For legal or medical questions, please contact a specialized agency (see Resources) or a specialist.

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