One-Day International Seminar on “Between Regulation and Risk: Intersection of Law, Public Health and Socio-Economic Vulnerabilities of Women Sex Workers

The Department of Research and Development and the Centre for Criminal Justice Research (CCJR), Saveetha School of Law, SIMATS, successfully organised a One-Day International Seminar on “Between Regulation and Risk: Intersection of Law, Public Health and Socio-Economic Vulnerabilities of Women Sex Workers” on 30th April 2026 at the New Moot Court Hall.

The seminar brought together academicians, legal professionals, and researchers to deliberate on the complex intersections of law, public health, and socio-economic vulnerabilities affecting women sex workers. The discussions focused on issues such as legal ambiguity, social stigma, public health risks, economic insecurity, and the need for rights-based and inclusive policy frameworks.

The event commenced with a Special Address by Dr. A. Mariyappan, Vice Principal (Academics and Services), Loyola College, Chennai, who highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing marginalised communities.

The Keynote Address was delivered by Prof. Ivan Efremovski, Full Professor of Law, International Slavic University, North Macedonia, who provided valuable global perspectives on regulatory frameworks and their implications on vulnerable populations.

The Technical Session was led by Dr. Alisha Verma, Associate Professor of Law, Vinayaka Mission’s Law School, Chennai, who engaged participants with critical insights into legal and public health dimensions of the subject.

The Valedictory Address was delivered by Adv. R. K. Prasad, Managing Partner, Crosby Law Associates, Chennai, who emphasised the role of legal practitioners in shaping inclusive justice systems.

A key highlight of the seminar was the Research Poster Presentation, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and scholars from various colleges in and around Chennai. The posters reflected innovative research and critical engagement with the seminar theme. The School of Law, Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, was adjudged the Best Poster Presenter.

The seminar successfully fostered meaningful dialogue and encouraged interdisciplinary research aimed at addressing systemic challenges and promoting dignity, safety, and social protection for women sex workers.