Prostitution in the Dominican Republic is legal, but a third party may not derive financial gain from prostitution (brothels or similar establishments are illegal).[1] However, the government usually does not enforce prostitution laws.[2]
The Dominican Republic has gained a reputation of being a major destination for international sex tourism. Sex tourism is common, especially in Las Terrenas, Cabarete, Sosua, and Boca Chica.[1] Child prostitution is a problem, particularly in major urban areas and popular tourist destinations, [3][4] but there has been a decrease in child prostitution since 2001, with the increase in policing and the decrease in corruption.[5][6]
According to newspaper reports there are about 30,000 children and adolescents involved in the sex industry.[6][7] The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement has started prosecuting individuals whom are engaging in child prostitution.[8]
HIV prevalence in the country's estimated 100,000 female sex workers ranges from 2.5% to 12.4%, depending on the locale.[9]
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