Sex workers: Study reveals impact of trafficking on sex workers in Andhra Pradesh | Vijayawada News

Vijayawada: A study conducted in Andhra Pradesh examined the impact of COVID-19 on victims of commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking. It reveals financial challenges, mental health issues, the desire of most sex workers to leave the industry, difficulties accessing education and lack of awareness of government rehabilitation programs. Some of the key findings include: Financial challenges: 68% of sex workers are involved in domestic prostitution, many have family responsibilities and come with varied lending profiles. Mental Health Challenges: There is an urgent need for increased awareness and access to mental health services. Support for family and children: discrepancies in documentation, use of social protection systems and the need for targeted interventions are highlighted. Willingness to transition: A majority of sex workers want to leave the industry, and many are unaware of government reintegration programs. Barriers to transition: Social, family and economic factors often prevent them from leaving the profession. Impact of COVID-19: significant loss of income, lack of clients, increased health concerns and increased desire to leave the profession. Lack of awareness and varied rehabilitation needs: Only 22% are aware of rehabilitation programs, while 78% are unaware. Sex workers express need for various rehabilitation measures The study was carried out by HELP, an organization working for the protection and promotion of the rights of survivors of trafficking and victims of CSE in Andhra Pradesh in over the last two decades. According to the study, the growing number of women and girls entering the sex trade is linked to trafficking. Women become involved in the sex work industry through both voluntary and involuntary methods. The choice to work as a sex worker may be influenced by poverty or family pressure, while being forced to do so may be the result of trafficking, coercion or adherence to traditional practices. Documented evidence indicates that a considerable proportion of sex work in India is carried out without consent. Sex workers, like other vulnerable groups, face high risks, but they often do not receive the same level of attention, protection and respect. Unfortunately, the reasons why individuals engage in sex work are often overlooked, leading to premature judgments that view them as unworthy of attention, protection, and respect. Additionally, sex workers (CSWs) expressed a desire for additional measures, including job training, social security and other forms of support.

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