Background
Sex work in Myanmar is illegal hence individuals who do this work are regarded as criminals. This legal situation creates barriers to utilize Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and services. In addition, there is a scarcity of knowledge, not only in Sexual Reproductive Health but also of the legal framework that protects their rights and health. This worsens the health hazards and negatively impacts the empowerment of FSWs. Consequently, they frequently become the victims of sexual violence and have increased risks of sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/ AIDS. The change project focused on Yangon and Mandalay because of their high concentration of FSWs.

About the project
The project implemented with Alliance Myanmar was designed to empower female sex workers in Yangon and Mandalay Region in SRHR and knowledge of the legal framework. A pre-assessment on SRHR knowledge was done among 87 FSWs, message packages on the legal framework related to SRHR for FSW was developed, awareness raising sessions on the legal framework through networks using the developed message package was conducted and stakeholder meetings with INGOs and partners was held.

Results
A total of 64 female sex workers from Yangon Region network and 23 female sex workers from Mandalay Region network were more aware of SRHR and the legal framework.

Year: 2017/2018