Prostitutes Of Peru Protest Against Violence, Discrimination

A hundred prostitutes and transvestites poured onto the streets of Lima to protest violence and discrimination against them.

Carrying placards proclaiming "we are human beings and we deserve respect," and "we have the same rights as any Peruvian woman" the protestors marched through the center of the capital.

Prostitution: Fresh Stakes in the Oldest Trade
Prostitution has broadened its base to include street prostitution, massage brothels, gigolo outcall services, strip clubs, lap dancing, phone sex, child prostitution and sex tourism.

"We are asking to be recognized as sex workers, to be covered by labor law," said Angela Villon, an activist for sex workers' rights.

In Peru, prostitutes are unable to avail themselves of government benefits, which may include cash for building a house, pension payments or social security.

Villon said that sex workers were often subject to violence at the hands of police, who provide them no protection from constant harassment and robbery.

Singapore- a Silent Haven for Women Trafficked for Prostitution
Three weeks after having her appendix removed last year, Filipina bar girl Camille was forced by her pimp back to work as a prostitute in Singapore.

Ximena Salazar, a sexual health expert from of Cayetano Heredia University, said government polices were counter-productive.

"They have the same rights as any other Peruvian citizen," she said. "We should recognize the organizations and talk to create tolerance zones, where there would be order."

Senior US Police Official Forced 13-year-old into Prostitution
A senior New York police detective has been charged with forcing a 13-year-old runaway into prostitution. He has been suspended without pay, but he denies the charges.

Source-AFP
LIN

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