The French government has declared a renewed offensive against the proliferation of establishments that disguise sexual exploitation under the guise of massage services.

Aurore Bergé, the Minister for Gender Equality, announced the initiative during an interview, stating, "We will close 100% of establishments that serve as a front for sexual exploitation in France." This statement signifies the launch of a new phase in the battle against concealed prostitution.

In the coming days, an interministerial circular, co-signed by Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin and Bruno Retailleau, will be disseminated to coordinate inspections and tighten sanctions.

The issue is not new, but authorities have reported a troubling escalation.

The organization Zéro Macho has identified 426 establishments in Paris where sexual services are allegedly offered in the guise of massage.

This underground economy relies heavily on the vulnerability and clandestine status of the women involved, many of whom are believed to be under the control of criminal networks.

Minister Bergé remarked, "Everyone knows we are actually talking about human trafficking," condemning practices that exploit young women under the pretense of wellness services.

The government's approach aims to dismantle this market by employing various regulatory tools.

Bergé clarified, "We will activate all levers: tax fraud, undeclared work, inhumane working conditions, and the employment of individuals in an irregular situation." This strategy broadens the legal framework to address the challenges faced in proving prostitution, which is frequently concealed beneath ostensibly legitimate activities.

This initiative aligns with a national plan unveiled in May 2024 by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal.

The government previously expressed its intention to tackle "so-called massage parlors housing prostitution," a growing issue that law enforcement agencies find difficult to control due to the blurred lines between legal business and clandestine activities.

While the government adopts a firm stance on this issue, it also emphasizes support for the victims caught in these networks.

Bergé asserted, "These women are primarily victims.

We will provide them with financial support and direct them to specialized organizations."

The effectiveness of this new crackdown remains to be seen.

In 2016, France implemented laws penalizing the purchase of sexual acts by clients, a measure that did not prevent prostitution from shifting to the Internet and these façade establishments.

The operation announced by Minister Bergé will be closely monitored by both feminist organizations and law enforcement agencies responsible for implementing these new directives.