The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an annual gathering of political leaders, business executives, tech company heads, celebrities, charitable organization leaders, and more. It is held in the popular ski resort town of Davos, Switzerland, and is known to generate an economic boom in the area. However, this event also creates financial opportunities for sex workers.
As hundreds of wealthy individuals come to the small town for the four-day event, some sex workers and agencies have opened up about their experiences in Davos. A manager from a sex worker agency in Aargau, located approximately 100 miles from Davos, stated that they received “11 reservations and 25 inquires” during the week of the WEF. These service requests range from escorting people to dinner to providing sexual services. The cost for booking one of the sex workers starts at four hours for 1500 francs, which is equivalent to $1,630 USD. The cost for a one-night booking can reach up to 2550 francs, which is equivalent to $2770 USD.
In 2020, an investigation by The Times revealed that at least 100 sex workers traveled to Davos to provide services during the WEF. Salomé Balthus, a 36-year-old sex worker from Germany, also publicly spoke about working during the event. In a tweet, she wrote, “Date in Switzerland during [the World Economic Forum] means looking at the gun muzzles of security guards in the hotel corridor at 2 a.m. – and then sharing the giveaway chocolates from the restaurant with them and gossip about the rich.”
The WEF is known for attracting a high number of wealthy and influential individuals, providing an opportunity for sex workers to capitalize on this influx of potential clients. However, it also highlights the darker side of the event, as these individuals are able to use their wealth and power to access services that are often illegal or stigmatized. It also raises questions about the safety and exploitation of these sex workers, many of whom may be forced into this line of work due to economic circumstances.
While the WEF is an important event for addressing global issues and fostering economic growth, it is important to also acknowledge the impact it has on the local community, including the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. It is crucial to have a conversation about the ethics and legality of the sex trade, and to ensure that the rights and safety of all individuals involved are protected.