Sex workers have legal rights both as citizens and via constitutional protections for their right to work. These rights are not being properly upheld as sex workers are frequently being denied police protection from harassment and violence.
The nature of their profession means sex workers in all countries live with stigma. This should not be used as an excuse for discrimination and inhumane treatment.
Not only are sex workers constantly mistreated and shamed but there is plenty of evidence that many are being denied access to basic necessities like healthcare and education.
This has particularly unfair consequences for the children of sex workers, who are often denied their right to a proper education. For them the stigma becomes hereditary and they are cruelly ostracised by others. This makes it extremely difficult for the children of sex workers to get jobs in any other field, as those willing and able to do other jobs are discriminated against.
The government has a responsibility to defend their rights and ensure their protection. This is a vulnerable group that is liable to be taken advantage of, which makes it all the more important to provide protection and freedom from exploitation.
Marginalising people and discriminating against them because of the nature of their profession is never justified and is an affront to human dignity.
Society needs to recognise that mistreating sex workers and their families makes them even more vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Their rights should be properly respected and defended by the government, when needed.