Doctors of the World Expands Vital Health Services for Sex Workers in France
Meta Description: Doctors of the World is bolstering its commitment to vulnerable populations with the Rosela program, providing critical health access and advocacy for sex workers in France.
For over 40 years, Doctors of the World has been on the front lines, delivering healthcare to the most marginalized communities and advocating for policies that ensure access to care. Operating in nearly 30 countries, the organization prioritizes six key areas of intervention, including sexual and reproductive rights and health, migration and health, and strengthening rights within the health system. Now, a focused initiative in France is expanding these efforts to directly support sex workers facing unique health and social challenges.
Rosela: A New Approach to Health Risk Reduction
Based in Montpellier, the Rosela program is a health risk reduction initiative specifically designed for sex workers in the Hérault region. The program’s core mission is to empower individuals by promoting access to rights and care, and by creating safe spaces for information, prevention, and support. Rosela operates on three fundamental pillars: reducing health risks and addressing violence, ensuring access to comprehensive health services – including sexual and reproductive health and psychosocial support – and actively involving and recognizing the agency of the individuals served.
Strengthening Community Engagement on the Ground
The program emphasizes a community approach, working directly with sex workers through outreach and engagement activities. Individuals involved with Rosela collaborate closely with mission managers, volunteer teams, and other staff within the Languedoc-Roussillon delegation. This collaborative environment is crucial for building trust and ensuring the program effectively addresses the needs of the community.
Direct Outreach and Support
A key component of Rosela involves direct engagement with sex workers through street outreach, digital platforms, and dedicated program spaces. This outreach includes providing information on health rights, connecting individuals with necessary care, and facilitating participation in training programs focused on self-defense and self-care. The program also actively works to mobilize individuals to create and lead collective spaces – both physical and virtual – fostering a sense of community and empowerment. A program official stated that alerting the program coordinator to critical situations affecting the target audience or the volunteer team is a priority.
Volunteer Integration and Training
Rosela actively seeks to integrate sex workers into the volunteer team, both as allies and peer supporters. This peer-to-peer support system is vital for building trust and ensuring the program remains responsive to the lived experiences of those it serves. The program also provides ongoing training for volunteers, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by sex workers and equipping them with the skills to provide effective support. Participation in local and national association activities, including meetings, seminars, and events, is also encouraged.
Collaboration with Partners and Professionals
Recognizing the complexity of the issues faced by sex workers, Rosela actively collaborates with a network of partners, including associations, healthcare professionals, and institutions. This collaboration extends to raising awareness among students and professionals in the social and medical sectors.
Data-Driven Advocacy and Program Improvement
Beyond direct service provision, Rosela is committed to documenting the realities on the ground and using this information to advocate for policy changes. This includes participating in data collection, monitoring program indicators, and contributing to advocacy efforts focused on risk reduction and sex work. The program also collaborates with the Lucha program in Rouen on shared tasks. Furthermore, Rosela ensures responsible resource management, including the maintenance of equipment and vehicles, adherence to safety protocols, and preparation of facilities. The program actively evaluates its impact, seeking feedback from participants to improve its effectiveness and ensure it is meeting the evolving needs of the community. “.
Rosela represents a significant step forward in providing comprehensive, rights-based healthcare to a vulnerable population, demonstrating Doctors of the World’s ongoing commitment to health equity and social justice.
