An Unmet Need for Reproductive Rights for Female Sex Workers of Bangladesh: A Call for Action

Abstract

All persons, including sex workers, have the right to the entire range of sexual and reproductive health services (SRHR). Nonetheless, sex workers face major SRHR disparities and unmet demands for proper SRHR services at all stages of their sexual and reproductive life. This study highlights the present gaps in access to SRHR services encountered by sex workers in our nation, as well as regulations that potentially safeguard their reproductive rights, to show the complex and subtle barriers that now hamper sex workers' access to SRHR services. Experts advocated for better access to comprehensive, integrated services addressing sex workers' broader SRHR requirements, such as family planning, abortion and pregnancy needs, SRHR screening, hormone treatment, and other gender-affirming services, to support the SRH needs and rights of sex workers. Addressing stigma and discrimination within healthcare settings, removing coercive SRH policies and practices, and allocating appropriate resources to sex worker-led SRH models within the context of sex work decriminalization are all critical steps toward ensuring equitable SRH access for sex workers. Thus, proper legislation regarding SRHR is the main focus of this study. The report also attempts to identify potential improvements that the government may adopt in the future. Adherence to international legal regime rules To that goal, the study examined the efficacy of existing legal frameworks focusing on constitutional law, and concluded with.