Medellin, in Colombia once synonymous with violence under Pablo Escobar, has transformed into a popular destination for tourists and digital nomads attracted by its scenic landscapes and vibrant nightlife. However, behind the allure lies a disturbing trend: an uptick in prostitution, including the exploitation of underage girls.
Nightfall in Medellin sees sex workers like Milena, earning between $150 and $300 nightly, flock to El Poblado, the city’s tourist hub. Despite prostitution being legal in Colombia, concerns over child exploitation have escalated following high-profile cases involving foreigners. Medellin Mayor Federico Gutierrez’s recent crackdown included suspending prostitution in El Poblado temporarily, aimed at curbing the exploitation linked to tourism.
Jazmin Santa, an advocate against child exploitation, highlighted the gravity of the situation, with at least a dozen foreigners arrested this year alone for suspected sexual exploitation of minors. While the age of consent in Colombia is 14, paying minors for sex remains illegal.
Medellin’s rapid tourism growth, with visitor numbers skyrocketing sevenfold in less than a decade, has drawn attention to the city’s darker undercurrents. Despite efforts to promote alternative tourism sectors like health and sports, concerns persist over how to manage the city’s evolving image.
Mayor Gutierrez’s measures, including proposed regulations on short-term rentals and collaborations with platforms like Airbnb to monitor guest behavior, underscore ongoing efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations while balancing tourism interests.
As Medellin navigates its complex transformation, visitors like Carl Manz, focusing on his own pursuits during a recent visit for a football tournament, reflect a broader sentiment of respect for local culture amidst growing scrutiny of tourism’s impacts.
The city’s future as a tourist hotspot hinges not just on its attractions, but on its ability to address and mitigate the challenges of exploitation and safety, ensuring a sustainable and responsible tourism environment for all.
