Rights and Vulnerabilities of Female Sex Workers: A Global and Indian Perspective

Female sex workers (FSWs) are among the most marginalized globally and in India, facing legal discrimination, economic hardship, violence, and stigma.This review examines structural factors influencing their vulnerabilities, including the impact of criminalization, health risks like HIV, and limited access to justice and services.Drawing on global and Indian literature, it highlights how laws like India's ITPA worsen marginalization.Economic and gender inequalities further heighten risks.However, community-led initiatives and decriminalization models show promise in improving outcomes.The paper advocates for legal reform, healthcare access, economic empowerment, and FSWs' inclusion in policy-making.