The Law of April 2016, also known as French Abolitionist law, recognizes prostitution as a form of violence against women and aims full decriminalization of prostituted persons. It provides exit program as a way out of prostitution, financial, socio-professional, medical support and a residence permit for protection to foreign victims who are starting an exit programme.

The shift of the criminal burden through the prohibition of the purchase of sexual acts is put on sex buyers. A fine for buying sexual acts can be up to 3,750 euros and/or participation in an awareness-raising course on the realities of the prostitution system.

French Abolitionist Law strengthens the fight against pimping, especially pimping on the internet as well raises public awareness on the realities of prostitution and the dangers of the commodification of the body in order to change society’s view of prostitution