France Targets 'Pimps 2.0': New Law Takes Aim At Online Exploitation On Onlyfans And Mym

France's Bold Move Against 'Online Sexual Exploitation'

In a decisive move, France’s Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of a new bill on Tuesday evening that introduces a criminal offense for 'online sexual exploitation.' The legislation, spearheaded by Les Républicains Senator Marie Mercier, aims to crack down on agents and intermediaries operating in the adult content realm on platforms such as OnlyFans and the French platform Mym.

The bill, which underwent substantial rewriting during debates, introduces a new offense inspired by human trafficking laws. This measure zeroes in on those accused of exploiting subscription-based adult content platforms, likened to modern forms of exploitation.

This landmark legislation is now on its way to the National Assembly for further deliberation.

Challenging Legal Definitions

Platforms like OnlyFans and Mym have thrived with a subscription model, where users shell out for access to personalized content. The pandemic only fueled their popularity. However, France's legal framework for prostitution requires physical contact, leaving online services outside its scope.

"The problem is that we are witnessing a fundamental debate about whether this type of content should be considered prostitution," revealed digital law attorney Raphaël Molina. Without a clear legal path, the Senate devised a new offense specifically targeting intermediaries in the digital space.

Pinpointing 'Pimps 2.0'

The spotlight is on managers and agents who purportedly recruit and profit from young women offering online services. Senator Mercier contends that while these managers promise financial independence through a "risk-free activity," the reality can be grim, involving manipulation and coercion.

“The reality behind the scenes is far more sordid, involving minors, consent sometimes obtained through harassment, and increasingly unhealthy or violent images and videos,” Mercier stated.

Under the new law, offenders could face severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison and a €150,000 fine, with harsher measures if minors are involved.

Debate and Divergent Views

While many acknowledge the need to curb exploitation, the bill has ignited concerns among sex workers, particularly those active online. An earlier proposal to criminalize buyers of personalized content was discarded to protect consensual adult freedoms.

Virtual sex worker Vera Flynn expressed apprehension, saying, “When it comes to agents, we more or less agree. But regarding personalized content, that’s where we had a problem.”

Others, like Molina, advocate for regulation over criminalization, suggesting administrative licensing as a possible solution.

A Starting Point Amidst Controversy

Abolitionists argue the bill doesn't go far enough. Delphine Jarraud of NGO Amicale du Nid argues that the digital nature doesn't change the act, calling for broader criminalization that mirrors Sweden's approach, which penalizes online sexual service purchases.

In response to critiques, Mercier describes the legislation as a necessary first step. “You can’t do everything in one day. You can’t redefine prostitution overnight. But we had to start by creating a breach,” she asserted.