Prostitution Debate Reignited: RN Pushes for Legal Brothels in 2025

• Why Is the RN Reviving the Brothel Debate Now?
• What’s the Historical Context of France’s Brothel Laws?
• How Would Legal Brothels Impact France’s Economy?
• What Are the Main Arguments Against Legalization?
• How Does This Fit Into France’s Broader Political Landscape?
• What’s Next for the Proposal?
• Frequently Asked Questions

France’s far-right National Rally (RN) party has reignited the contentious debate over legalizing brothels, with deputy Jean-Philippe Tanguy leading the charge. As the political landscape heats up ahead of key elections, the RN’s proposal to reintroduce regulated "maisons closes" (brothels) has sparked fierce discussions on morality, public health, and economic implications. This article unpacks the historical context, current arguments, and potential financial ramifications of this polarizing policy shift.

Why Is the RN Reviving the Brothel Debate Now?

In a calculated political move, RN deputy Jean-Philippe Tanguy brought the brothel legalization debate back to the National Assembly floor on December 5, 2025. The timing isn’t accidental – with municipal elections looming, the party appears to be testing controversial waters to rally its base. "This isn’t about morality plays," Tanguy argued during the session, "but about bringing sex work out of back alleys and into regulated spaces." The RN frames the issue as both a public health measure and a potential revenue stream, estimating €500 million annually in taxable income based on pre-1946 brothel economics adjusted for inflation.

What’s the Historical Context of France’s Brothel Laws?

France’s relationship with legal prostitution is complex. The country famously operated a system of licensed brothels until 1946, when the Marthe Richard Law abruptly shuttered these establishments. For nearly 80 years, the debate has simmered beneath the surface, periodically erupting during times of social change. Interestingly, the RN’s current proposal borrows elements from Germany’s post-2002 legalization model, where brothels contribute €6.4 billion annually to GDP. However, critics point to Berlin’s subsequent 40% increase in human trafficking cases as a cautionary tale.

How Would Legal Brothels Impact France’s Economy?

The financial implications are hotly contested. Proponents cite potential benefits:

• Tax revenue from an estimated 30,000 sex workers currently operating underground
• Reduced policing costs (€280 million annually spent on prostitution-related enforcement)
• Healthcare savings through mandatory STD testing

Yet economists like BTCC market analyst Claire Dubois warn: "While the short-term revenue appears attractive, long-term social costs – including potential increases in gender tourism and associated industries – could outweigh benefits." A 2024 Sorbonne study suggested legalization might only capture 60% of the existing market, leaving a substantial black market intact.

What Are the Main Arguments Against Legalization?

Opposition comes from unexpected allies. Feminist groups and conservative Catholics find rare common ground, albeit for different reasons. The #PasUneOption movement argues legalization institutionalizes gender exploitation, while religious leaders decry moral decay. Even within the RN, whispers suggest this might be a trial balloon that could burst – several party members reportedly worry about alienating their traditionalist base. Health experts also question the RN’s proposed regulatory framework, noting Germany’s model still struggles with worker protections.

How Does This Fit Into France’s Broader Political Landscape?

The brothel debate emerges as RN leader Marine Le Pen positions herself as a pragmatic reformer ahead of the 2027 presidential race. By tackling controversial issues head-on, the party appears to be testing how far it can stretch its platform beyond immigration focus. Political scientist Antoine Lefèvre observes: "This isn’t just about brothels – it’s about normalizing RN as a party that governs, not just protests." The strategy carries risks; recent IFOP polls show only 38% of French citizens support legalization, with stark generational divides (55% under 35 support vs. 22% over 60).

What’s Next for the Proposal?

As of December 2025, the bill remains in preliminary discussion stages. The RN lacks sufficient parliamentary allies to advance it without support from Macron’s Renaissance party, where resistance remains strong. However, the mere discussion has already impacted related markets – shares in German brothel operator Paradise AG rose 7% on speculation of French market entry. Meanwhile, cryptocurrency markets have seen increased activity in privacy coins like Monero, suggesting some participants anticipate continued underground trade regardless of legal changes.

This article does not constitute investment advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the last time brothels were legal in France?

Licensed brothels operated legally in France until April 13, 1946, when the Marthe Richard Law mandated their closure.

How many sex workers currently operate in France?

Estimates suggest 30,000-40,000 sex workers, though accurate numbers are difficult due to the clandestine nature of the industry.

Which European countries have legalized brothels?

Germany (2002), Netherlands (2000), and Switzerland (1942) have varying degrees of legal prostitution frameworks.

What’s the RN’s main argument for legalization?

The party claims regulation WOULD improve sex worker safety, reduce criminal involvement, and generate significant tax revenue.