Illegal prostitution continues to be a serious problem in the Austrian state of Carinthia. According to police, closing down illegal brothels does not solve the issue, because new ones often appear shortly afterward. Authorities say the sex trade is difficult to control, especially when criminal networks operate across borders.
The topic was recently highlighted in a report by Kleine Zeitung, which spoke with an officer from the regional criminal police about the realities of prostitution in the area.
Legal and Illegal Sex Work Exists Side by Side
Police estimate that hundreds of sex workers are active in Carinthia. Some of them work legally and are registered according to Austrian law. Others operate illegally, often under the control of criminal groups.
An officer from the State Criminal Police Office explained that illegal prostitution is constantly changing.
When police shut down one illegal brothel, another often opens soon after, sometimes in a different location or under a new name. This makes long-term enforcement very difficult.
Authorities say that illegal businesses often hide behind legal-looking structures, such as rented apartments or temporary massage studios.
Criminal Networks and Cross-Border Activity
One of the biggest challenges for police is the international nature of the illegal sex trade. Many criminal groups operate across borders, especially between Eastern Europe and Austria.
These networks recruit vulnerable people by offering jobs or a better life abroad. Once the victims arrive, they may be forced into prostitution through threats, violence, or emotional pressure. Police say this type of crime is closely linked to human trafficking.
Because these groups move quickly and change locations often, investigations can take months or even years.
Court Case Highlights the Problem
The issue became public again after a recent court case in Klagenfurt. Two Romanian citizens, a man and a woman, are accused of human trafficking, pimping, and serious physical abuse.
According to prosecutors, the victim was misled in Romania with false promises and later brought to Carinthia. There, she was allegedly forced into prostitution.
The trial was postponed after the female suspect failed to appear in court for the second time. Police are now searching for her, and she may be placed in pre-trial detention once found.
The case shows how difficult it can be to bring such crimes to court, especially when suspects or victims come from other countries.
Victims Often Remain Silent
Police stress that many victims are afraid to speak out. Some fear punishment, deportation, or revenge from those controlling them. Others do not trust authorities or feel ashamed of their situation.
This silence makes it easier for criminal groups to continue operating. Even when police suspect illegal activity, they often need victim statements to move forward with a case.
Support services and victim protection programs exist, but authorities say more awareness and trust are needed.
Ongoing Efforts by Authorities
Despite these challenges, police say they continue to monitor the situation closely. Regular inspections, cooperation with social services, and international police work are key tools in the fight against illegal prostitution and human trafficking.
Officials emphasize that prostitution itself is legal in Austria under certain rules. The real focus, they say, is on protecting people from exploitation and stopping organized crime.
As long as demand exists and criminal networks remain active, police expect the issue to continue. Authorities say long-term solutions will require cooperation between countries, stronger victim support, and ongoing public attention.