A new study from Aalborg University reveals that the majority of individuals selling sex via online advertisements in Denmark are foreign nationals. The research, based on data collected from a major Danish online platform for sex work, indicates a significant shift in the demographics of sex workers in the country.

Only 11 percent of those advertising sexual services identify as being of Danish ethnicity. This figure is considerably lower than anticipated, according to Rasmus Munksgaard, the project’s leading researcher and a lecturer in criminology at Aalborg University.

While approximately 20 percent of advertisers do not specify their country of origin or provide a different nationality, Munksgaard suggests this may be due to issues related to residency permits or to avoid scrutiny. He further explains that fewer Danes today struggle with substance abuse, which in the past, drove some to prostitution as a means of acquiring funds.

The dominance of foreign nationals in the sex work market raises concerns about their working conditions and vulnerability. Munksgaard emphasizes that these individuals often operate under significantly worse circumstances than their Danish counterparts, making them more susceptible to social exclusion and marginalization.

Jeanette Dam Kaastrup, the head of Reden Aalborg, a counseling center for sex workers, confirms that many of their clients are foreign women. She highlights their particular vulnerability due to language barriers, lack of knowledge about the Danish system and their rights, and fear of seeking help due to potential issues with their residency status.

Kaastrup advocates for the implementation of a “safe conduct” scheme to protect all individuals selling sexual services, regardless of their immigration status. This scheme would allow them to safely report instances of violence, rape, or abuse to the authorities without fear of being penalized for illegal residence or other potential offenses.