Prostitutes Lebanon

Prostitution in Beirut presents a stark choice for many vulnerable women: endure rape or enter the sex trade. In modern Lebanon, it operates semi-officially through super night clubs and illegally on streets, in bars, hotels, and brothels. Lebanon’s sex industry hides in plain sight. While technically legal, no new brothel licenses have been issued since the 1970s. Officially, the law requires licensed brothels with regular worker health testing, but enforcement is inconsistent.

Recruitment and Industry Structure

Many women arrive on artist visas, starting as dancers before turning to prostitution after hours. Thousands enter Lebanon annually under this pretense. Prostitution occurs in various forms and networks, often segregated by the women’s nationalities. Despite its prevalence, it remains illegal, with those convicted facing up to two years in prison. Punishment typically falls heavily on the women.

Vulnerabilities and Systemic Issues

Vulnerable groups, like Syrian refugees, are particularly at risk of trafficking into Beirut brothels. Workers face physical assaults from clients or pimps and endure dangerous conditions. Some venues, like nightclubs, employ sex workers as artists but forbid sex on-site, creating further legal gray areas. Transgender escorts and other sex workers advertise services online, though platforms often disclaim involvement. The industry persists, driven by economic desperation and systemic loopholes, trapping women in cycles of exploitation.

*TAGS* – super night clubs, artist visas exploitation, Syrian refugee trafficking