50 Years Later

It is estimated that in the past thirty years trafficking of women and children in Asia for sexual exploitation has victimized over 30 million people.

It is generally estimated that there are around 20,000 -30,000 female sex workers working through 15-20 licensed brothels in Bangladesh. These victims usually come from poor families, lured into promises of a better life for themselves and their families. They might be offered a job or an education, while others are kidnapped and sold by friends and family members for profit. It is a ruthless business where money overpowers basic human rights.

Once they are sold to a madam, they are bonded for a few years, making no money. Even after they are freed, many girls remain at a brothel due to lack of education, social prejudice, and economic necessity. They also believe that their families would suffer several social taboos such as the loss of self respect and social dignity.

Children who are born into brothels have limited opportunities because it is unlawful for children raised in brothels to attend school. Some girls have few options but to follow in their mother's footsteps as a sex worker, passing the profession on to the next generation.

Growing old does not mean the end of one’s career, but it does mean working harder for a fraction of the pay a younger woman can expect. There is a significant client demand for young girls, with a positive correlation between the youth of the worker, the number of clients she services and her level of income. As they get older, they find it difficult to get customers and struggle to make a living. Though young and attractive girls can earn about 100 tks (70 tks = US1D) per service, old ones can only charge 30 to 50 tks.