Sex workers
Sex workers operate within different environments, from brothels to streets, hotels and bars. Each location has its own degree of risk and vulnerability. The sex trade is not static — it evolves in reaction to changes within the social or economic context. HIV/AIDS intervention or prevention programmes need to recognise and respond to these changes.
Research has shown that prevention programmes for sex workers can be very effective.
Successful HIV programmes use a mix of strategies:
- Promotion of safe sexual behaviour (condoms and negotiation skills)
- Services for the treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections
- Peer education
- Outreach programmes
- Care for sex workers living with HIV
- Policy and law reform (respect for and protection of sex workers)
More information: Violence against sex workers
