Belgium is making headlines with a groundbreaking new law that introduces maternity leave, pensions, and health insurance for sex workers—an unprecedented move globally. This legislation allows sex workers to secure official employment contracts, providing essential worker rights previously absent in the profession.
For many, this change comes as a welcome relief. Sophie, a mother of five and a sex worker, shared her struggles, recalling how she worked until the week of her delivery due to financial constraints. Under the new law, Sophie and others like her are now entitled to maternity benefits, which they hope will ease their burdens.
"Now we can exist as human beings," says Sophie, reflecting on the newfound dignity the legislation offers. While sex work has been decriminalized in Belgium since 2022, the establishment of formal employment rights marks a pioneering step in ensuring safety and welfare for workers in this field.
Experts in human rights, such as Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch, lauded the move as “radical,” pointing out the potential for other countries to follow suit. However, the law is not without controversy. Critics argue that it may inadvertently legitimize an industry fraught with violence and exploitation. Julia Crumière, a volunteer with an NGO supporting sex workers, voices concerns about the normalization of sex work, emphasizing its inherent risks.
Mel, another sex worker, recounts a harrowing experience with a client. She expresses relief that the new regulations empower her to refuse unsafe demands, giving her legal recourse to advocate for her rights. This sentiment is echoed by Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, who views the transformation as a means to ensure safer working conditions and dignity for those in the profession.
The legislation stems from protests that erupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, as sex workers sought recognition and support. "There are protocols now," Victoria emphasizes, highlighting that with legal protections, workers can expect a safer environment.
Although the law permits the operation of brothels under strict regulations, concerns remain. Critics argue that many individuals in the profession prefer to leave it entirely, desiring stable employment rather than labor rights. Nevertheless, advocates believe that providing protections will lessen the vulnerabilities that many have long endured.
The new law requires that all sexual services be conducted in rooms equipped with emergency alarms to enhance safety. While Julia remains skeptical about the overall efficacy of such measures, Mel sees this as a progressive move towards transparency and safety in the industry.
As Belgium forges ahead with this pioneering legislation in worker rights, the world watches closely. For Mel and others in the profession, the hope is that this initiative not only protects workers but also paves the way for a more nuanced understanding of sex work as a legitimate occupation. "Belgium is leading the way," she declares, “and it gives me hope for the future.”
To protect privacy, some names in this report have been altered.
For many, this change comes as a welcome relief. Sophie, a mother of five and a sex worker, shared her struggles, recalling how she worked until the week of her delivery due to financial constraints. Under the new law, Sophie and others like her are now entitled to maternity benefits, which they hope will ease their burdens.
"Now we can exist as human beings," says Sophie, reflecting on the newfound dignity the legislation offers. While sex work has been decriminalized in Belgium since 2022, the establishment of formal employment rights marks a pioneering step in ensuring safety and welfare for workers in this field.
Experts in human rights, such as Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch, lauded the move as “radical,” pointing out the potential for other countries to follow suit. However, the law is not without controversy. Critics argue that it may inadvertently legitimize an industry fraught with violence and exploitation. Julia Crumière, a volunteer with an NGO supporting sex workers, voices concerns about the normalization of sex work, emphasizing its inherent risks.
Mel, another sex worker, recounts a harrowing experience with a client. She expresses relief that the new regulations empower her to refuse unsafe demands, giving her legal recourse to advocate for her rights. This sentiment is echoed by Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, who views the transformation as a means to ensure safer working conditions and dignity for those in the profession.
The legislation stems from protests that erupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, as sex workers sought recognition and support. "There are protocols now," Victoria emphasizes, highlighting that with legal protections, workers can expect a safer environment.
Although the law permits the operation of brothels under strict regulations, concerns remain. Critics argue that many individuals in the profession prefer to leave it entirely, desiring stable employment rather than labor rights. Nevertheless, advocates believe that providing protections will lessen the vulnerabilities that many have long endured.
The new law requires that all sexual services be conducted in rooms equipped with emergency alarms to enhance safety. While Julia remains skeptical about the overall efficacy of such measures, Mel sees this as a progressive move towards transparency and safety in the industry.
As Belgium forges ahead with this pioneering legislation in worker rights, the world watches closely. For Mel and others in the profession, the hope is that this initiative not only protects workers but also paves the way for a more nuanced understanding of sex work as a legitimate occupation. "Belgium is leading the way," she declares, “and it gives me hope for the future.”
To protect privacy, some names in this report have been altered.
