This is a GLOBAL issue: an unknown number of mothers are trafficked worldwide and many of their children will be sexually exploited. Millions of FSW become pregnant and do not have access to high quality antenatal care; millions of FSW who are mothers have difficultly accessing health services for themselves and for their children. Many mothers and children also suffer from stigma and discrimination that compromise their access to safe housing and education.
It is also HEALTH issue: Many of the mothers and their children are infected with HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases, as well as suffering from malnutrition, chronic diseases, and brutal physical and sexual abuse. In addition, many mothers and children will experience mental and emotional health problems. These conditions result in much suffering and too often, death.
We made a PROMISE to help mothers in sex work and their children. A group of mothers in sex work in Kathmandu, Nepal, described how many of their children died as a result of living in this situation and then asked us to promise to help their children. We are committed to keeping that promise.