Online pimping via platforms like Zalo has become widespread.

According to reports from 63 provinces and cities, the current number of registered sex workers is 11,240. However, the actual number is much higher because this activity is very difficult to control due to its complexity, sophistication, and disguise.

This information was released at the Conference on the Implementation of the Program for the Prevention and Control of Prostitution in the period 2016-2020, organized by the National Committee for AIDS Prevention and Control and the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Prostitution this morning (May 12) in Hanoi.

Currently, many new forms and types of prostitution are emerging nationwide, such as pimping through the Internet, Facebook, Zalo, etc. 80% of those involved in pimping and brokering are aged 18 to 25.

Prostitution involves individuals of various ages and backgrounds, with the majority (over 75%) being unemployed or self-employed.

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In cities, prostitution hotspots have reappeared in public areas, negatively impacting the cultural environment and social order, causing public outrage. Prostitution has been and continues to cause many negative consequences for society, increasing the risk of spreading sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS. Prostitution also fuels the rise of criminal gangs and organizations involved in drug trafficking, illegal drug use, and the trafficking of women and children.

Mr. Nguyen Xuan Lap, Director of the Department of Social Evils Prevention and Control (Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs), said that in the period 2016-2020, research will continue to develop a decree on prostitution prevention and control to be upgraded to a Law on Prostitution Prevention and Control, with the focus on prevention as the main priority; and strengthen the development of policies to improve access for vulnerable groups.

Develop and pilot models for combating prostitution, such as models for assisting sex workers in the community and social work centers, models for legal aid, peer support clubs; resolutely eradicate and combat sexual exploitation and sexual activities…/.

According to VOV