In Madagascar, the situation of sex workers is alarming. According to a recent study carried out by Médecins du Monde, these professionals are daily victims of gender-based violence. This category of workers is often stigmatized, despised and deprived, leaving little room for improving their health and their rights.
Lova, a 23-year-old sex worker, shares her experience of regular physical and psychological violence. Customers don’t always respect the agreed price and when Lova demands what she owes, she gets hit. Sexual violence is also commonplace, sometimes orchestrated by several men. Insults are also part of his daily life, particularly from parents in the neighborhood who refuse to let their children play with his.
Faced with this shocking reality, Médecins du Monde has launched a new program entitled “Law, Empowerment and Health”. This project aims to improve the health and rights of sex workers in Madagascar. Dr Valérie Raberanto, program manager, explains that the aim is to change behaviors and mentalities, so that sex workers can access sexual and reproductive health services without fear or shame.
This program, which extends over a period of four years, also focuses on informing sex workers about their rights. But it also aims to raise awareness among the rest of the population in order to break stereotypes and prejudices towards this category of workers.
In conclusion, it is essential to highlight the reality of sex workers in Madagascar, who experience violence and discrimination on a daily basis. The Médecins du Monde program represents a glimmer of hope to improve their situation, by encouraging access to health services and working for a change in mentalities in society.