Dignita Report Examines Trafficking Risks Among Sex Workers in Northwestern Bulgaria

The Dignita Foundation has published a report on sex workers’ risk of trafficking in Bulgaria, focusing on the challenges in identifying women who are victims. Prepared under the “My Body – My Rights” project, supported by the Bulgarian Fund for Women, the report outlines key risk factors and specific needs of women engaged in sex work. It highlights the urgent need for dedicated support and protective measures to aid this vulnerable group.

Based on discussions and interviews with 17 women from various segments of the sex industry in Vratsa, Montana, and Sofia, the report highlights that the lack of targeted prevention efforts and negative societal attitudes hinder the identification of women trapped in trafficking for sexual exploitation. Often, these women are enticed by traffickers promising higher income in the country or abroad, with pimps exploiting their dependency, poverty, and urgent need for funds.

The report is organized according to different segments of the sex services market, focusing on street and club-based prostitution. Findings show that, although some women report different forms of violence, they rarely perceive themselves as victims of exploitation. The strong bonds with their pimps and emotional attachment—often combined with a history of violence from an early age—lead to the normalization of violence as part of their daily life.

According to the analysis, women who provide sexual services are easy targets for traffickers, especially in the street prostitution segment, where they often work under the supervision of pimps. In the other segment—club-based prostitution—women work as dancers and often rely on clubs to provide security, though they still face various forms of risk and coercion. Regardless of the segment, these women need legal and social assistance, as well as psycho-social support, to break free from the vicious cycle of exploitation and violence.

The report emphasizes the importance of public debate on prostitution issues and suggests exploring potential models for protecting sex workers in Bulgaria. This could include support for women and sanctions for users of sex services, following the example of contemporary European protection models.

You can access Dignita’s full report here.