In a recent research study, social scientist Heike Menzel-Kötz interviewed convicted offenders to analyze the strategies used to push women into prostitution. Her findings, presented at the Freedom Congress in Schwäbisch-Gmünd, paint a shocking picture: perpetrators systematically build closeness and attachment in order to later exert emotional violence and control the women. "She was with me voluntarily" – this phrase, according to Menzel-Kötz, is typical of offenders who do not understand or refuse to understand the system of exploitation.
The Bible speaks clearly against all forms of oppression and exploitation. In Isaiah 58:6, it says: "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?" (ESV). God demands justice and freedom for the oppressed – a clear mandate for the Christian community.
The Role of the Economy and Society
Menzel-Kötz emphasizes that not only the direct perpetrators, but also car dealers, real estate agents, and mobile phone shops profit from exploitation. The women generate money, but contracts and debts remain with them. Money serves as a tool of power, and responsibility is shifted onto the women. These structures are deeply embedded in our society and require a change in thinking.
As Christians, we are called to stand up for the weak. Proverbs 31:8-9 encourages us: "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy" (ESV). The church can be a prophetic voice, pointing out injustices.
Prevention and Political Responsibility
The researcher calls for greater attention to patterns of violence, not just isolated violent acts. Prevention must start at this point. Politics also has a role: laws are needed that hold perpetrators accountable and protect victims. In France, a societal shift has taken place that exposes prostitution as a system of exploitation. Germany could follow suit.
The Christian community can make an important contribution through pastoral care and practical help. The story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) shows that condemnation is not the way, but mercy and the call to begin a new life. At the same time, we must not ignore structural sin.
What Can We Do? Practical Steps for the Church
As individuals and as a church, we can:
- Educate ourselves: Raise awareness about the mechanisms of exploitation.
- Support: Donate to organizations that help women in prostitution, such as "Solwodi" or "FIM – Women's Rights Are Human Rights."
- Pastoral care: Offer a safe space for affected women where they can be heard without judgment.
- Political engagement: Advocate for stricter laws against human trafficking and for punishing buyers.
The Bible calls us in Micah 6:8: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" (ESV). This love must be shown in concrete action for the exploited.
Questions for reflection: How can your church become a safe place for women in need? What steps can you take personally to stand against exploitation? Let us not remain silent, but raise our voices for those who have no voice.
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