Equality and Inclusion for Female Sex Workers

Friends Affected and Infected Together in Hand (FAITH) is a community-based organisation in Nepal working to promote the rights of female sex workers (FSWs). With KIOS support, FAITH has been able to address systemic discrimination against FSWs in a context where stigma, restrictive norms, and criminalisation undermine their rights and exclude them from broader women’s movements.

During the grant period, FAITH strengthened sex worker–led advocacy to influence laws and policies and promote accountability. The organisation coordinated an advocacy task group of five peer-led organisations and engaged 85 duty-bearers, including parliamentarians and national commissions, through dialogues and policy outreach. A memorandum outlining key concerns was submitted to ministries, supported by legal expertise and direct meetings with decision-makers. As a result, 57 duty-bearers signed written commitments to uphold the rights of sex workers, an unprecedented achievement in Nepal. FAITH also contributed 18 case studies to international and national human rights reporting processes like CEDAW, Universal Periodic Review, and supported local discussions on inclusive policies.

The work led to concrete changes at the local level. Municipalities showed interest in adopting non-discriminatory policies, indicating growing recognition of sex workers’ rights. Dialogues and public events strengthened collaboration between FSWs and authorities, while assessments involving 236 sex workers focused on their political participation and inclusion.

FAITH succeeded in building new alliances, amplifying voices that are often excluded and advancing the recognition of rights violations. Building on these achievements, FAITH will continue to promote legal and policy reforms, expand engagement with local authorities, and strengthen the leadership of sex worker–led organisations.

“Powered by the resilience of the sex worker community itself, FAITH is closing the gap between law, policy, programs, and the people they must serve.” – Reena Lama, Executive Director

Photo: FAITH.

KIOS has supported the work of IMLU since 2022 with funding from the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ development cooperation.