Prostitution in Laos
Prostitution in Laos is regarded as a criminal activity and is much less common than it is in neighbouring Thailand. The capital city Vientiane was once famous for its brothels and ping pong show bars during the 1960s and 1970s as a result of the country's involvement in the Vietnam War.[1] However, the brothels have since disappeared and are now prohibited by Lao law. Soliciting for prostitution instead takes place mainly in the city's bars and clubs.[2] The country's Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo Province has been called "a mecca of gambling, prostitution and illicit trade".[3] Many of the sex workers in Laos are Vietnamese, while some Laotian women go to Thailand to work as sex workers.[1] Laos has been identified as a source country for women and girls trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation in Thailand.[4]
References
- 1 2 Jeffrey Hays (2008). "Sex in Laos". Facts and Details. Retrieved 21 September 2015.
- ↑ "Vientiane, Laos 2015 – City Nightlife, Clubs, Sex and Lao Family Life". www.retire-asia.com. Retire Asia. Retrieved 21 September 2015.
- ↑ Jonathan Kaiman (8 September 2015). "In Laos’ economic zone, a casino and illicit trade beckon". Los Angeles Times (Ton Pheung, Laos). Retrieved 13 September 2015.
- ↑ "Trafficking in Persons Report 2008: Laos". www.state.gov. U.S. Department of State. 4 June 2008. Retrieved 21 September 2015.