For many years, sex workers have been discussed alongside the spread of HIV and AIDS. The media and government organisations often focus on the relation between AIDS and the sex trade. There exist several reasons for why this is becoming an issue.

In many different countries, even where AIDS prevalence is low, it has been found that the rate of infection is higher amongst people involved in the sex trade than those in the general population. Sex workers have a high number of sexual partners. Once they become infected with HIV, they are a risk to other clients. In their fight against the disease, many countries have made special efforts to concentrate on the sex trade.

Although the word ‘prostitution’ can be used to describe the act of selling sex, it can also mean ‘using a skill or ability in a way that is considered unworthy’. It seems to include a moral judgement, by implying that individuals who sell sex are somehow ‘unworthy’, or involved in a practice that is corrupt. A far more neutral and respectful alternative is the term ‘sex work’. Some authorities continue to talk about prostitutes, but they often do so because they wish to make a moral comment about the sex trade. In addition, some people talk about sex workers ‘fuelling the spread of HIV’. Not only is this an example of poorly chosen wording, but it is also a claim that is questionable in its accuracy.

So what role do sex workers play in the global epidemic? Some may say that they are being wrongly accused of spreading the epidemic, while others may argue that they are increasing HIV transmission worldwide. The extent of the problem varies from country to country. In some places where sex workers use drugs, HIV prevalence is higher. Women in Africa, specifically in the south, often turn to sex work because of poverty. Often, this is the only way for them to earn an income. Some women only take it up as a temporary measure to pay fees, but they are often lured in and never let out of this lifestyle.

Improving the situation will require greater efforts by governments, groups and individual members of society to help sex workers. It is particularly important that sex workers gain access to HIV prevention and treatment programs. Such programs not only save sex workers’ lives, they can also help to stem the wider impact that HIV is having on societies around the world.

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