Sexual Behavior and Perceived Risk of HIV/AIDS Among Young Migrant Factory Workers in Nepal

It is commonly assumed that young migrant workers in Nepal experience increased vulnerability as they move from the social controls of community and family, and that exposure to a mixed-gender environment might lead to earlier sexual debut or to an increased number of casual encounters. In the current study, researchers set out to document the sexual behavior, perceived risk of STDs and HIV/AIDS, and protective behaviors of migrant workers ages 14-19 in garment and carpet manufacturing facilities in the Kathmandu Valley.

A representative sample survey of 1,050 factory workers provided the basis for analysis. Twenty-three in-depth case histories provided additional information. Bivariate and multivariate techniques were used to identify factors associated with risky sexual behavior.

One in five boys and one in eight unmarried girls reported sexual intercourse, despite religious and cultural restrictions. Multiple partners, early sexual experimentation and low/irregular condom use were not uncommon. While the researchers found documented cases of exploitation by factory owners or managers, these instances were rare. Nonregular sex partners were typically identified as friends from the same factory or community. Despite reporting high-risk behavior, relatively few of the youths felt they were at risk of STDs or HIV/AIDS, and their access to information on the possible consequences of unprotected sex was inadequate.

"Programs aimed at promotion of safer sex practices and life skill training that facilitates communication and utilization of sexual health services should target vulnerable migrant young people," the authors concluded.

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