Sex Work in Peru: Social Challenges, Regulatory Framework, and Economic Contributions

Abstract

Sex work in Peru lies at the intersection of public health, labour rights and legal regulation, in a context marked by
stigmatization and regulatory gaps. This study explores, in a qualitative and narrative manner, the available evidence on the
main social challenges, the regulatory framework, and the potential economic contributions of sex work in the country, based
on secondary academic and institutional sources published between 2019 and 2025 in Spanish and English. Through a
narrative analysis of scientific literature and regulatory documents, patterns, tensions and thematic gaps related to the issue
were identified. The findings show that most research focuses on the health sector and reveals barriers to accessing services,
experiences of violence and stigmatization processes, as well as the persistent regulatory ambiguity surrounding the practice.
The economic dimension is based mainly on international comparative studies and grey literature, revealing a scarcity of
verifiable local estimates. Overall, the review suggests that sex work in Peru poses multidimensional challenges that demand
informed public policy responses, with an emphasis on human rights, health, and progressive regulation. This article offers
narrative and analytical inputs useful for authorities and social organizations, as well as a research agenda aimed at
strengthening understanding of this complex phenomenon.