Der Mädchenhandel
"Der Mädchenhandel" by Friedrich Wilhelm Hermann Wagener is a socio-political publication written in the early 20th century. This work investigates the illicit trade of young women, discussing its roots, the intricacies of the trafficking networks, and the societal and legal frameworks that allow it to thrive. Wagener aims to inform and raise awareness about these harrowing realities to protect vulnerable young women from exploitation and to advocate for the abolition of brothels as a means to combat the problem. The opening of the work lays the groundwork for its exploration of the issue, beginning with a response to the claim made in 1905 that there was no significant girl trafficking within Germany. Wagener counters this narrative by outlining the operations of an extensive network of traffickers who exploit socio-economic vulnerabilities. He shares firsthand experiences and observations from the German National Committee's campaigns against the trade. Through these insights, Wagener underscores the grim reality of young women being deceived and sold into prostitution, while also positing that significant legal and societal changes are necessary to eradicate this crisis.