Through Peace Stamps, I hope to educate people on how to be more responsible tourists. As a legal venue of prostitution, the area attracts millions of tourists each year. Many tourists choose to travel to Amsterdam to partake in activities that are illegal in their home countries. But just because it is legal in Amsterdam does not mean it is ethical. A large majority of this income stems from tourists. They choose to sell themselves to support themselves and their families instead of pursuing another source of income.
The average prostitute in Amsterdam is her own boss and makes about to euros a day. After a decade of prostitution these women find themselves right back where they started with no job, no money, no degree, and no career. Although pimps are supposedly not present in the Red Light District, there is still evidence of human trafficking.
According to a few sources, there is evidence of illegal Russian organizations trafficking women to The Netherlands. The women are often too afraid to go to the authorities for fear of what may happen to them or their families. There are also men who will coerce the women to fall in love with them and then manipulate them into prostitution. Although the brothels are equipped with security buttons in the rooms, police officers, security guards, and other methods to protect the women, there are still incidents of women being harmed by their customers.
With this type of business, women being harmed is inevitable. While it is not all that common, any harm is too much in my opinion. Although the Red Light District is what draws many tourists to Amsterdam, there are many other appeals of Amsterdam. To be a more responsible tourist it is important to support the activities that leave the city better off than when you arrived. If you are looking to go to Amsterdam, I suggest renting a bike and touring the city. There are millions of bikes around the city, which contribute to a more eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Even the Red Light District has amazing architecture. It is okay to experience the architecture but do not support the actions there. There are thousands of charming cafes, pubs, and restaurants around Amsterdam. You can catch the ferry near the Amsterdam Central train station. NDSM is an industrial area that has repurposed shipping containers into unique bars, cafes, and even housing for students and refugees.
