A State of Art of the Italian and Dutch Public Policies on Prostitution: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow?

This contribution offers a comparative analysis of prostitution policies in Italy and the Netherlands, highlighting contrasting national approaches shaped by cultural and historical influences. The Italian policy, rooted in moral abolitionism, is based on the 1958 Merlin Law, which decriminalized prostitution while criminalizing third-party profiteering. However, this approach led to unregulated and unsafe contexts for sex workers, increasing their vulnerability to exploitation and violence. In contrast, the Netherlands adopted a pragmatic approach, legalizing and regulating prostitution in 2000 to ensure sex workers' rights and safety. Despite the efforts, the Dutch model faced challenges such as organized crime infiltration and a lethal economic burden on smaller brothels due to strict bureaucracy. In parallel, both countries experienced recent shifts in public discourse, influenced by the Swedish Model, advocating for the criminalization of clients. Nonetheless, the need for comprehensive social support systems, balanced regulations, evidence-based justice approaches and destigmatization initiatives to address the complexities of the phenomenon must be emphasized. Regular policy evaluations involving stakeholders would then enhance adaptability to social changes. The findings underline the multidimensional nature of prostitution policies shaped by legal, socio-cultural and political dynamics. In conclusion, a human rightsbased approach able to prioritize safety and empowerment is crucial for the well-being of sex workers.