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‘Sex pats’ in Ukraine: the rise of ‘sex tourism’

July 3, 2009 at 1:25 pm by Shawn Alff

An increasing number of foreigners are visiting Ukraine in search of women. These “sex pats” (a play on expatriates), are becoming increasingly common in developing regions like South America, Asia, and Africa (despite 20% HIV positive populations in some African countries).

The Ukraine has become a breeding ground for “sex pats” for a number of reasons. The country’s poor economy situation, and Ukrainian women’s lack of independence, has forced many into this desperate situation. Despite new legislation, prostitution in Ukraine is only punished by small fines. Also, male order bride websites, like Ukrainian Bride, a multimillion dollar industry, has attracted suitors wanting to meet potential wives and girlfriends face-to-face.

Currently, Ukraine has the highest AIDS rate in all of Europe, with 1.6% of the adult population infected (more than twice the average), and the rates are exponentially higher among sex trade workers.

Read the rest of the story at globalpost.com.

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