Uncelebrated Victories: Highlighting Sex Worker-Led Decriminalization Efforts in Africa

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Uncelebrated Victories: Highlighting Sex Worker-Led Decriminalization Efforts in Africa

November 28, 2025

This report documents concrete progress made by sex worker-led organizations across sub-Saharan Africa toward decriminalizing adult sex work—an essential step for protecting sex workers’ rights, safety and health. Grounded in the commitments of the 2030 Agenda and UNDP’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, the report highlights how criminalization fuels stigma, violence and HIV vulnerability, while undermining efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Through case studies, key takeaways and practical strategies, it showcases achievements in areas such as legislative reform, access to justice, movement-building, access to health services and inclusion in decision-making, and provides concrete guidance for others working towards decriminalization. It is intended as a resource for sex work leaders, advocates, allies and activists across Africa and internationally.

Document Type
Regions and Countries