An Exploration of the Social Support of Women in Sex Work in Cúcuta, Colombia

Abstract

AbstractSocial support for women in sex work is essential for their overall health and well-being. In the city of Cúcuta, Colombia, both domestic Colombian and migrant Venezuelan women utilize the sex industry to obtain an income. However, with limited resources in this area and little prior research about the current supports, this study explores the social support accessed and received, the social support desired, and identifies the formal social support available to women in sex work in Cúcuta, Colombia. To conduct this research, 28 interviews were conducted: 10 with Colombian women in sex work, 12 with Venezuelan women in sex work, and 6 with professionals representing various social service organizations. Findings indicated that most of the women relied on informal support, yet many women also expressed a desire for formal social support services, specifically related to health care, food, and housing assistance. Nonetheless, gaps persist in the availability of desired formal services This research demonstrates the importance of service providers working with women in sex work directly to understand their lived experiences, while also demonstrating self-determination and empowerment. Further research is needed to measure the implementation efficacy of formal services and the barriers to access for women in sex work.Keywords: Sex workwomensocial supportmigrantsColombia Disclosure StatementThe author declares no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.Additional informationFundingFunding for this research was provided by The Ohio State University College of Social Work through the Ph.D. Research Seed Grant Program.