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Law & Legislation

Sexarbeit

The voluntary provision of sexual services for payment—legal in Switzerland since 1942.

Auch bekannt als: Prostitution, Erwerbsprostitution, sexarbeitend

Sex work refers to the self-determined provision of sexual services by adults in exchange for payment. The term was established in the 1980s by the international sex worker movement to frame the activity as gainful employment and to distinguish it from the morally charged term "prostitution."

In Switzerland, sex work has been legal since 1942 and is classified by the Federal Supreme Court as a recognized form of gainful employment (BGE 137 III 593). Sex workers enjoy all fundamental rights, are subject to taxation, and can register with the AHV as self-employed.

Pimping (Art. 195 StGB), promoting prostitution of minors (Art. 196 StGB), and human trafficking (Art. 182 StGB) remain criminal offenses.

See also

  • Zuhälterei — Criminal exploitation of a person engaged in prostitution under Article 195 of the Swiss Criminal Code.
  • Menschenhandel — Criminal exploitation of a vulnerable situation for the purpose of sexual exploitation — Section 182 of the Swiss Criminal Code.
  • Sperrgebiet — An area designated by the canton or municipality where street prostitution is prohibited.
  • AHV-Anmeldung — Mandatory registration with the cantonal compensation fund for any self-employed activity.

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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