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Prostitution in France

Prostitution in France is recorded as a substantial and state regulated activity beginning in Roman times and continuing into the 21st century - a good 2,000 years of recorded business acteivity. Brothels were many and varied, some quite famous, and this continued through both World Wars. Kings, politicians, Toulouse-Lautrec, soldiers of all stripes and nationalities, and many, many others were publicly known to frequent these establishments.

But in 1946 brothels were outlawed, and, since then, the French have become much more restrictive about prostitution. France became increasingly assertive internationally as a champion of abolitionism, opposing moves towards liberalization and regulation by the Netherlands and the International Labour Organization Their domestic laws have become increasingly abolitionist and, perhaps, effective. On April 6, 2016, the French National Assembly voted to fine customers of prostitutes €1500. This would make me think multiple times about having fun with a French prostitute.

Why is this happening? And what are the practical effects? Anyone have any experiences with this? Or just brilliant thoughts and insight?