Louise and Martine Fokkens, 70-year-old identical twins, are known as the oldest window prostitutes in Amsterdam. With nearly 100 years of combined experience, they have starred in a documentary and written a book about their lives. Unlike most women in the Red Light District, they are Dutch and have worked together for decades.
Louise was forced into prostitution by her husband in her early 20s, who threatened to leave her if she did not earn money. She has three children, some of whom were in foster care. Martine, with four children, also faced violence and exploitation. The twins supported each other through the hardships, often working together in threesomes.
Both sisters believe that the legalisation of brothels in 2000 has worsened conditions for Dutch prostitutes. They say it led to increased taxation and the influx of organised crime. Martine notes that many women now work from home or online to avoid tax. 'The vultures came in 2000,' she says.
Louise retired two years ago due to arthritis. Martine still works three days a week, relying on regular clients. Despite their tough lives, the twins maintain a cheerful attitude. However, Louise admits she has little savings, saying 'Whores are expected to do things for nothing.' She refused to charge tourists for photographs, deeming it wrong.
