Scholars from around the world have contributed to the first major reference book to be published on female prostitution as an international phenomenon. Experts survey and analyze the historical background, current problems and policies, and future possible directions in 16 representative countries. The volume belongs in college, university, and institutional libraries and collections dealing with social problems, women's studies, international relations, and world history.

The volume opens with a lengthy introduction by the editor, Nanette Davis, defining the situation in general, pointing to current trends and future concerns. Country chapters, primarily by native writers, include: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, England and Wales, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Taiwan, United States, Vietnam, and the former Yugoslavia. Each chapter provides references, and the index makes the volume easily accessible to researchers in various disciplines.