Female sex workers (FSWs), Transgender and gender-diverse populations in Bangladesh have been stigmatized and victims of social exclusion and face a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV due to a range of factors, including gender-based violence (GBV), limited healthcare access, social stigma, criminalization, and multiple sexual partnerships. Therefore, most of the targeted population has less interest in obtaining health services and disclosing their sexual identity.   

In Bangladesh, an estimated 200,000 FSWs operate in both urban and rural areas, either independently or in brothels. Recent HIV data of Bangladesh (published on 01 December 2021 by MOHFW) showed that among the newly detected PLHIV, 18% are MSWs, TG, and MSM. Integrated Biological and Behavioral Survey (IBBS)-2020 shows that the highest active syphilis present among the transgender (24.8%), MSM (17.2%) and FSWs (7.2%) in Chittagong division and the highest HIV prevalence present among the MSM (3.1%) in Dhaka division.

Accessing healthcare remains a significant challenge for these marginalized populations, especially in developing nations like Bangladesh, where financial constraints and the fear of being judged by healthcare providers deter seeking treatment for STIs or HIV. 

Access to comprehensive SRH information for this group remains inadequate, as it does within the general population. Building awareness about HIV/AIDS and STI prevention, particularly the promotion of condom use among youth and high-risk groups, is of paramount importance to adolescent SRH, as well as the overall status of SRH for the country.

UNFPA in Bangladesh, therefore, works together with national partners to:

• Promote stronger integration and scale-up of SRH services & rights with HIV prevention for key populations.
• Support to the HIV positive FSWs key populations for ART adherence.
• Advocacy and communications to create an enabling and sustainable environment for the FSW & GDP