Understanding Violence: A Qualitative Study on Female Sex Workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh

In Dhaka, Bangladesh, female sex workers (FSWs) face significant and often unreported violence, affecting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. To shed light on this issue, RMCL conducted an in-depth qualitative study to explore the types and causes of violence experienced by FSWs, the impacts on their lives, and potential paths toward better support and protection. This blog presents the study’s key findings, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions that address both the personal and societal factors contributing to violence against female sex workers.

Types of Violence Experienced by Female Sex Workers

The study identified various types of violence that FSWs commonly endure, including:

Physical Violence

This includes assault, battery, and forced confinement by clients, law enforcement, and others. Physical violence is alarmingly common and often goes unreported due to stigma and fear of repercussions.

Sexual Violence:

Sexual violence, including coercion, rape, and non-consensual practices, is a distressing reality for many FSWs. This form of violence severely impacts both mental and physical health, increasing vulnerability to trauma and sexually transmitted infections.

Emotional and Psychological Abuse:

Many FSWs face verbal abuse, threats, and social ostracism. This type of violence is particularly damaging to mental health, leading to issues like anxiety, depression, and a lack of self-worth.

Economic Exploitation

FSWs are often victims of economic abuse, including withholding of earnings and unfair treatment by clients or brothel managers. Financial insecurity leaves them trapped in cycles of poverty and dependency.

Root Causes of Violence Against Female Sex Workers

The study identified several root causes contributing to the violence faced by FSWs:

Social Stigma and Marginalization:

FSWs in Bangladesh are often socially ostracized, leading to marginalization that fosters an environment where violence is normalized and accepted.

Legal and Policy Barriers:

The legal framework surrounding sex work in Bangladesh is complex and largely unfavorable, often forcing FSWs into hidden, unregulated spaces where they are more vulnerable to abuse.

Power Imbalance:

Many FSWs face a significant power imbalance with clients, law enforcement, and brothel managers, limiting their ability to resist or report violence.

Economic Vulnerability:

Limited income opportunities leave FSWs economically dependent on sex work, which increases their exposure to exploitation and abuse.

Impacts of Violence on FSWs

The violence experienced by FSWs has profound, far-reaching impacts on their lives:

Physical and Mental Health Issues:

Physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and mental health challenges are common among FSWs subjected to violence. Anxiety, depression, and trauma are particularly prevalent due to the constant fear and reality of violence.

Social Isolation and Stigma:

Experiences of violence often isolate FSWs from society and family, leading to severe social stigma that further limits their options for support and assistance.

Financial Hardship:

Economic exploitation keeps many FSWs in cycles of poverty, making it difficult for them to escape abusive situations or transition to alternative livelihoods.

Coping Mechanisms and Resilience

Despite the many challenges, FSWs employ various coping strategies to manage their difficult circumstances:

Building Support Networks

Many FSWs form close, supportive bonds with other women in the industry, offering emotional support and practical help when needed.

Resilience Through Adaptation:

FSWs often develop resilience through self-defense techniques, negotiation skills, and careful selection of clients to reduce risks.

Advocacy and Community Programs:

Some FSWs participate in advocacy programs or health outreach, which provides them with resources and a sense of empowerment.

Recommendations for Support and Prevention

The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive, multi-faceted interventions to address violence against FSWs. Key recommendations include:

Legal and Policy Reform:

Advocacy for legal reform to provide protections for FSWs is essential. Legal safeguards can reduce vulnerability to abuse, empower FSWs to report violence, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Healthcare Access:

Improved access to healthcare services, including trauma counseling and reproductive health care, can help address the physical and mental health impacts of violence.

Awareness Campaigns to Reduce Stigma:

Community awareness campaigns can challenge societal stigma and encourage empathy, reducing the marginalization that often leads to violence.

Economic Empowerment Programs:

Providing FSWs with skills training and alternative livelihood options can reduce dependency on exploitative situations and improve economic stability.

Safe Reporting Mechanisms:

Establishing confidential, accessible reporting systems can empower FSWs to report instances of violence without fear of reprisal or stigma.

Conclusion: Toward a Safer Future for Female Sex Workers

Violence against female sex workers in Dhaka is a complex and deeply rooted issue, influenced by stigma, economic vulnerability, and legal barriers. The findings of RMCL’s qualitative study highlight the urgent need for a compassionate, rights-based approach to support FSWs, protect them from violence, and empower them to live safer, healthier lives. RMCL is committed to advocating for policies and programs that prioritize the well-being and rights of female sex workers, working towards a future where no one faces violence because of their livelihood.