Commercial sex work is among the oldest professions globally, governed by a patchwork of laws ranging from full legality in some parts of Europe to outright prohibition elsewhere. This study investigates the legal dimensions and ethical considerations surrounding prostitution, focusing on factors driving individuals into sex work in India and Nigeria and examining the unique contexts within these countries. Adopting a doctrinal approach, this study involves a comprehensive examination of secondary sources. Findings reveal that legal responses to prostitution vary greatly across nations, from the death penalty to total legality. Contributing factors to female trafficking include poverty, unemployment, and societal norms, with cultural and religious customs emerging as significant influences, particularly in India. In Nigeria, while the constitution prohibits gender-based discrimination and the National Gender Policy promotes women’s empowerment, there remains an urgent need to evaluate whether these frameworks adequately protect the human rights of vulnerable women. Despite these legal safeguards, deeply rooted patriarchal values, traditions that subordinate women, high illiteracy rates, feminized poverty, and the low social status of women leave many Nigerian women susceptible to violence.