Prostitution

Often, people mistakenly assume prostitution is sex rather than sexual violence and a personal choice rather than a human rights abuse. No woman in her right mind chooses to prostitute herself. In many cases, she is lured in by a “boyfriend” who turns out to be a pimp or trafficker. Once she finds out, escaping from the life is difficult and dangerous. Many victims are controlled through psychological means, such as threats of violence, manipulation, and lies. Others experience beatings, rape, and other forms of physical violence. Drug addiction can also be a factor. Nearly 90% of prostituted women say they want out immediately, but the decision is out of their hands and in the hands of their pimps, their boyfriends or husbands, their addictions, or their children’s financial support.

Terminology

“Prostitute” is not an appropriate term for a person providing sexual services, as it implies choice or a willingness to participate. The descriptions “prostituted,” “sexually exploited,” and “sex trafficking” are more accurate.

Statistics

Statistical information from “Prostitution and Trafficking in Nine Countries: An Update on Violence and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder” prostitutionresearch.com