Sophie, a mother of five, embodies the challenges many sex workers confront. She often worked throughout her pregnancies due to financial constraints, expressing relief that the law will finally give her and others the maternity leave they deserve. The decision to legalize sex work in 2022 laid the groundwork for these rights, aiming to treat sex work like any other profession.
Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch hailed the law as a radical step forward, urging other nations to adopt similar protections. While some critics express concerns about the potential normalization of sex work and linked issues such as trafficking and abuse, many sex workers advocate for these changes as a necessary acknowledgment of their rights.
For Mel, another sex worker, the law allows her to refuse clients without worry and helps protect her from unsafe practices. Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, points out that such laws are crucial for creating safe working environments, giving sex workers the tools to protect themselves.
However, not all sex workers share the same sentiment. Julia Crumière, a volunteer at an NGO supporting sex workers, states that she encounters many who wish to exit the industry rather than be provided labor rights. She argues that implementing safety protocols like alarm buttons for emergencies highlights the inherent dangers of sex work.
Despite differing opinions on the law, many believe it will lead to a safer work environment and better conditions. As Belgium stands at the forefront of this debate, the new law may set a precedent for how sex work is regulated and perceived worldwide. While the journey towards acceptance and protection is complex, sex workers like Mel are hopeful about the future.
Some names have been changed to protect individuals' safety.
Prostitution, Women's rights, Belgium, Brussels
Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch hailed the law as a radical step forward, urging other nations to adopt similar protections. While some critics express concerns about the potential normalization of sex work and linked issues such as trafficking and abuse, many sex workers advocate for these changes as a necessary acknowledgment of their rights.
For Mel, another sex worker, the law allows her to refuse clients without worry and helps protect her from unsafe practices. Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, points out that such laws are crucial for creating safe working environments, giving sex workers the tools to protect themselves.
However, not all sex workers share the same sentiment. Julia Crumière, a volunteer at an NGO supporting sex workers, states that she encounters many who wish to exit the industry rather than be provided labor rights. She argues that implementing safety protocols like alarm buttons for emergencies highlights the inherent dangers of sex work.
Despite differing opinions on the law, many believe it will lead to a safer work environment and better conditions. As Belgium stands at the forefront of this debate, the new law may set a precedent for how sex work is regulated and perceived worldwide. While the journey towards acceptance and protection is complex, sex workers like Mel are hopeful about the future.
Some names have been changed to protect individuals' safety.
Prostitution, Women's rights, Belgium, Brussels
