The problem with prostitution is that in many countries (in particular prohibitionist ones, but also in abolitionist and neo-abolitionist ones to a varying extent) prostitution is forced underground. As a consequence, more often than not, organised crime becomes involved, and prostitutes are made more vulnerable (most cannot work independently, and become dependent on pimps and procurers, and are at the total mercy of their clients, who may demand unsafe sexual practices). This is important from a public health point of view in the era of re surging STDs and an HIV/Aids pandemic. For this reason, international organisations such as the World Health Organization have abandoned moralistic approaches and adopted a pragmatic attitude, instead. 8. The prohibitionist and abolitionist approaches furthermore have the disadvantage of enshrining a certain double standard. In many countries applying these approaches, for example, having paid sex itself is not prohibited, but offering paid sex is. The height of hypocrisy is that even where prostitutes are sanctioned, clients often are not.”