The sex business (prostitution) is one of the oldest professions in the world, in which sexual services are exchanged for money or any other form of compensation. Sex business, or prostitution, is not an illegal service in most parts of the world, but it is a complex topic with varying legality and social views around the world, including Nepal. Lets embark the real truth with The firewood.
Prostitution is illegal in Nepal, which is unofficially tolerated and has high risk due to its illegal status. People are found at night exchanging sex for money or any other products. According to some research, there are 70,000 sex workers actively involved in prostitution in Nepal. As prostitution is illegal in Nepal, an average of 25–30 sex workers are arrested monthly at a lodge or hotel. There is a lot of debate regarding making red-light areas in Nepal illegal or keeping them illegal.
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Right or wrong??
According to UNAIDS, in 2011 AD, only 40,000 sex workers were in Nepal. However, in the course of 5 years, it expanded, and around 70,000 sex workers are currently working in Nepal actively. Despite this, females, males, and children are also found to be involved as sex workers, according to the reports. Similarly, a study of the Global Network of Sex Workers project reports that many of the prostitutes were found to be labourers originating in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Bangladesh, and Australia, where prostitution is legal, whereas Brazil, Spain, Italy, and Poland have rights but with restrictions. Likewise, in countries where it is not legal, people do it as a hidden business with a caution to not be in the sights of police or any other legal persons. However, the debate of whether prostitution is right or wrong cannot be determined, as at least 420,000 people around the world are working as sex workers as their primary occupation in order to fulfil their needs and to feed their families.
Why are people in Nepal getting into prostitution?
People who work as prostitutes are mostly found to be financially weak and cannot feed their families and children, and due to fewer job opportunities, people are forced to be prostitutes and start their lives as sex workers. Some people get into the sex business because they get molested by their bosses, husbands, and other family members too. Sometimes, some people take advantage of the poor situation of the people and are forced to have sex for money, for prestige, and to clear any financial debts. Being sexually assaulted and becoming the victim of human trafficking are also the main reasons people are forced to get into prostitution and become sex workers.
As we came across it, we got to meet a sex worker and listen to their story. She was a 37-year-old lady whose husband left her and the children for another wife. She was in search of good employment to feed her children, but whenever she tried to get a good job, she was either assaulted or disrespected. She tried to do many jobs, but the condition was the same everywhere. So, she got depressed and had no other solution despite getting into the sex business. Now, it has already been 10 years since she got into the business, and she is feeding and taking care of her child’s studies and paying the bills from prostitution.
What is the history of the sex business in Nepal (prostitution)?
The history of sex business in Nepal is complex and multifaceted, intertwined with many socio-economic, cultural, and political factors. Prostitution is illegal in Nepal, but it does exist in various forms.
Historically, Nepal has had a tradition of the Devadasi system, where young girls were dedicated to temples and served as religious dancers and prostitutes. However, this system has largely disappeared over the years due to social reforms and changing cultural norms. In recent years, the trend has been abolished, and various rules and regulations against such a culture have also been developed.
The 1970s and 1980s saw a significant increase in the number of dance bars and massage parlours in Kathmandu, where sex work often took place under the guise of entertainment and relaxation services. These establishments became popular among tourists and locals alike, contributing to the expansion of the sex business in Nepal.
The history of the sex business in Nepal is a complex and sensitive topic that is not openly discussed. Many try to hide the fact that such businesses do exist in Nepal, and due to their secrecy, the government has also trouble controlling or taking action. Similarly, we can all agree that the topic of discussion, “sex,” is not widely accepted in families or in society. This is mainly due to improper sex education and narrow-minded concepts. Even though it is the truth, many don’t accept it because the truth is always harsh and bitter. While efforts are being made to address the challenges faced by sex workers and combat human trafficking, much more needs to be done to ensure the protection and rights of the most vulnerable individuals in society (yet another truth).
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections
In Nepal, as in other parts of the world, the prevalence of STDs is influenced by various factors, including lack of awareness, limited access to healthcare services, poverty, and socio-cultural norms. Prostitution, particularly in the context of a clandestine and unregulated industry, can exacerbate the spread of STDs if proper precautions such as the use of condoms and regular testing are not observed.
Historically, the growth of the sex industry in Nepal, fueled by factors like tourism, economic hardship, and urbanization, has been associated with an increase in the transmission of STDs. Sex workers, due to their vulnerable status and limited access to healthcare, are often at a higher risk of susceptibility to and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
It’s crucial to approach the issue of STDs in Nepal, or anywhere else, with sensitivity, understanding, and a focus on comprehensive sexual health education and access to healthcare services for all individuals, regardless of their occupation or social status. Blaming prostitution exclusively for the spread of STDs oversimplifies a complex public health issue and can stigmatise and marginalise vulnerable populations.
The Socioeconomic Context of Prostitution in Nepal
The sex trade in Nepal is deeply intertwined with the country’s socioeconomic context. Poverty, a lack of education, and limited employment opportunities are some of the driving factors behind individuals entering the sex industry. Many find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty, where prostitution becomes a means of survival rather than a choice. Poor economic condition with an increasing price hike followed by improper education is the reason behind the struggles of every below-average Nepalese. Due to this reason, employment opportunities are restricted for such individuals, and it is not only the case of prostitution but also another main reason for the increase in criminal activity in any country.
Human trafficking and exploitation
Human trafficking is a significant concern in Nepal, with many individuals, including women and children, being lured or forced into the sex trade under false pretenses. Traffickers prey on vulnerable populations, promising them better opportunities or exploiting their desperate financial situations. Once trapped, victims often find themselves subjected to physical and psychological abuse, with little to no means of escape.
Legalisation vs. criminalization
The debate surrounding the legalisation of prostitution in Nepal is complex and contentious. Advocates for legalisation argue that it would help regulate the industry, protect the rights of sex workers, and reduce the incidence of human trafficking and exploitation. They point to countries like the Netherlands and Germany, where legalised prostitution has led to improved working conditions and reduced levels of violence against sex workers.
On the other hand, opponents of legalisation argue that it would only serve to legitimise and perpetuate the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. They believe that the focus should be on addressing the root causes of prostitution, such as poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality, rather than legalising an inherently exploitative industry.
Conclusion
The sex trade in Nepal is a complex and multifaceted issue, shaped by a myriad of socioeconomic, cultural, and political factors. While efforts are being made to address the challenges faced by sex workers and combat human trafficking, much more needs to be done to ensure the protection and rights of the most vulnerable individuals in society.
A comprehensive approach that focuses on poverty alleviation, education, and gender equality, combined with improved healthcare services and legal reforms, is essential to addressing the root causes of prostitution in Nepal. Moreover, it is crucial to approach the issue with sensitivity, understanding, and a focus on human rights, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their occupation or social status, have access to the support and services they need to lead healthy and dignified lives.
