Summary:

• Sex worker-led organizations, in collaboration with UNESCO, marked the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers in Arua City, addressing challenges faced by sex workers, emphasizing the need for protective laws, and highlighting human rights violations, while acknowledging the complexities of prostitution in Uganda.

The International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers was observed on December 17, 2023, in Arua City, with the active participation of a sex worker-led organization, coordinated by UNESCO, and the sex worker rights movement. The event aimed to draw attention to the various crimes perpetrated against sex workers and pay tribute to those who have suffered violence.

Ivan Suku, the LC1 chairperson for Upper Bibia Cell Pangisa Ward in Central Division Arua City, expressed concern about the mistreatment of sex workers by certain clients. He emphasized the challenges faced by sex workers, including harassment, threats, non-payment after services, and instances of assault, which sometimes reach his office.

Suku attributed the rising number of sex workers to factors such as community poverty levels, domestic violence, parental pressure leading them into the profession, refugee status, and some being orphaned without proper guidance. He clarified that there are bylaws prohibiting teenage girls from engaging in the business.

Nasuna Stella, a women activist at UNESCO, highlighted the continued marginalization and stigmatization faced by sex workers despite existing laws. She urged the government to enact protective legislation to safeguard the rights of sex workers, uphold human rights, mitigate violations, and enhance access to justice.

Nasuna called on law enforcement, particularly the police, to adopt an affirmative action approach to protect the rights of sex workers and ensure equal access to health and social services, including reproductive health.

Referring to the UNESO human rights violation report for 2022-2023, Nasuna pointed out that the right to freedom from inhumane and degrading treatment, including physical and sexual assaults and murder, remains the most violated human rights among sex workers.

An anonymous sex worker told Examiner that they face stigmatization and discrimination when seeking health services. Despite prostitution being illegal in Uganda according to the 1950 Penal Code, it is widespread due to factors such as poverty and limited alternative opportunities. A 2008 study of Kampala teachers revealed that some turned to prostitution to augment their income.