Muluki Criminal Code 2074 guides the rape law in Nepal. According to Muluki Criminal Code 2074, whoever has sexual intercourse with a woman without her consent or, in the case of a woman below eighteen years of age even with her consent, shall be deemed to have committed rape Sex work in Nepal faces various challenges and issues, and sex workers often encounter multiple problems related to their profession. Some of the key issues and challenges that Nepali sex workers may face include:

1. Legal Status: Prostitution is illegal in Nepal, which means that sex workers can face legal consequences if they are caught by law enforcement. This legal status can contribute to a lack of protection for sex workers and can make them vulnerable to exploitation.
2. Stigma and Discrimination: Sex workers in Nepal often face significant social stigma and discrimination. This stigma can affect their access to healthcare, housing, and other essential services.
3. Health Risks: Sex workers are at a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Lack of access to healthcare, safe sex practices, and education can exacerbate these health risks.
4. Violence and Exploitation: Sex workers are at a higher risk of experiencing violence and exploitation. This can include physical violence, sexual abuse, and financial exploitation by clients, pimps, or traffickers.
5. Lack of Legal Protections: Because sex work is illegal, sex workers often lack legal protections and rights. They may be reluctant to report crimes against them due to the fear of legal repercussions.
6. Human Trafficking: Some individuals in the sex trade may be victims of human trafficking, forced into prostitution against their will. This is a serious issue in Nepal, and anti-trafficking efforts are ongoing.
7. Economic Vulnerability: Many people engage in sex work due to economic necessity, lack of alternative job opportunities, or poverty. Economic vulnerability can trap individuals in the profession.
8. Social Services: Access to social services and support for sex workers, such as education and job training, can be limited, making it difficult for them to transition to other forms of employment.

Efforts to address these challenges include advocating for the rights and safety of sex workers, providing access to healthcare, and offering vocational training and economic opportunities to help sex workers transition into other professions. Additionally, organizations and activists in Nepal work to combat human trafficking and provide support to those affected. It's important to approach this topic with sensitivity and consider the social and legal context in Nepal.

It's challenging to provide precise numbers regarding the total number of people involved in the sex industry worldwide, as it varies significantly from one region to another and is often subject to stigma and illegal activities. Additionally, many individuals in the sex industry may not be formally documented or counted in official statistics.

The number of people working in the sex industry can include a wide range of individuals, including sex workers, pimps, traffickers, and those involved in various support roles. It's important to note that many individuals may engage in sex work due to economic necessity, coercion, or other factors, and not all do so voluntarily.

Estimates and data related to the sex industry can be highly variable, and there's no single global statistic to provide an accurate count. Various organizations and researchers may attempt to estimate these numbers, but they should be viewed with caution due to the complexities and diversity within the sex industry and the challenges in collecting accurate data.

If you are interested in specific statistics for a particular region or country, you may need to consult relevant government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or research studies that focus on that area. However, be aware that the accuracy of such statistics may vary.

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the laws related to sex in Nepal include the following:

1. Prostitution: Prostitution is illegal in Nepal. Engaging in sex work, soliciting customers for sexual services, and running brothels are criminal offenses.
2. Human Trafficking: Human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation is illegal in Nepal. Laws are in place to combat and prosecute those involved in trafficking individuals for sexual purposes.
3. Age of Consent: The age of consent for sexual activity in Nepal is 16 years old. Sexual activity with a minor under the age of 16 is considered a criminal offense.
4. Child Marriage: Nepal has laws in place to combat child marriage, which can involve minors being forced into sexual relationships through early marriage. The legal age for marriage in Nepal is 20 years for both males and females.
5. Same-Sex Sexual Activity: As of my last update, same-sex sexual activity was criminalized in Nepal under Section 377 of the Penal Code. However, Nepal had made significant progress in recognizing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2007, the Supreme Court of Nepal issued a landmark decision recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and directing the government to ensure equal rights and protection from discrimination.

Please note that laws can change over time, and it's essential to consult with the most recent legal sources or legal experts to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding sex-related laws in Nepal. Additionally, Nepal has been making efforts to reform and modernize its legal framework, so there may have been changes in the legal landscape since my last update.