Gig Prostitution and Recruitment Processes a False Promise of Freedom

ABSTRACT

This article is based on the results of two research projects conducted between 2018 and 2022, illustrating the recruitment processes used as part of the criminal activity which I define as “gig prostitution,” a form of criminal organization which revolves around the commercial sexual exploitation of children. It highlights the emphasis placed on negotiation and contractual relations during the recruitment phase. Gig prostitution is described by those involved as being based on personal integrity and the right to decide what use one makes of one’s own body. However, closer examination of the facts reveals that this freedom exists in name only. In spite of the accent placed on consent, negotiation and individual interests, such discourse is in reality accompanied by mechanisms which prevent victims from breaking free of exploitative relationships.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

¹ All of the Prostitutes involved in the cases we studied were female.

² We have chosen to refer to individuals by the role they play in criminal activity. That’s why we’ve systematically capitalized them, to avoid any confusion that would reduce individuals to their activity.

³ All quotations presented in italics are extracts from depositions taken during the cases we studied. In cases where these extracts are taken from phone-tapping operations, this is specified.

⁴ 25 of 27 Bosses were men − 92%; 22 of 24 Logistical Service Providers were men − 91%; 100% of the Prostitutes were women

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Notes on contributors

Bénédicte Lavaud-Legendre

Bénédicte Lavaud-Legendre holds a doctorate in law. She is a researcher at the National Center for Scientific Research in France. She has led various research projects on human trafficking and the various forms of exploitation of migrants.