A STUDY ON “HUMAN RIGHTS FRAMEWORKS, SOCIAL PROTECTION, AND SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND RIGHTS OF SEX WORKERS IN LAOS”
A STUDY ON “HUMAN RIGHTS FRAMEWORKS, SOCIAL PROTECTION, AND SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND RIGHTS OF SEX WORKERS IN LAOS”
The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership (ADPWL) conducted a study under the Sex Workers Network Consortium project in Lao, with its vibrant cultural tapestry, poses unique challenges for marginalized communities, including sex workers. Led by the ADPWL, this study delves into the experiences, challenges, and aspirations of sex workers in Lao, focusing on social protection, rights, and overall well-being. This summary provides a concise overview of ADPWL’s comprehensive study on sex workers in Laos.
Tailored for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers, it encapsulates key objectives, findings, recommendations, and conclusions. It calls for collective action to champion the rights and well-being of sex workers, highlighting ADPWL’s dedicated commitment to this cause.
Key Findings: Information and Access to Social Security and Social Protection Awareness Discrepancy: Many sex workers lack awareness of social security measures, leading to missed opportunities.
Varied Information Sources: Informal networks, peer groups, and NGOs play a crucial role in providing information on social protection.
Access Barriers: Barriers include complex documentation, stigma, bureaucracy, and unclear eligibility criteria.
Discriminatory Treatment: Discrimination hinders access to social security benefits, leaving sex workers financially vulnerable.
Economic Vulnerabilities: The absence of social protection leaves sex workers financially exposed, particularly during crises.
Intersectional Challenges: Sex workers with overlapping identities face compounded difficulties in accessing social security.
Role of Community Initiatives: Community-driven initiatives fill gaps, providing emergency relief, legal aid, and awareness campaigns.
Need for Recognition: Lack of official recognition of sex work hampers access to social protections designed for other sectors.