Article text:
Belgium has made a historic stride towards improving the lives of sex workers with the passage of a new law that grants them maternity leave and pensions, along with other employment rights. Sophie, a mother of five and a sex worker, shares her struggle, stating, “I had to work while I was nine months pregnant." With no option to rest after giving birth via Caesarean, she immediately returned to work to provide for her family. Thanks to the new legislation, sex work will now be acknowledged as a legitimate occupation, allowing workers to claim maternity leave, health insurance, and pensions.
“This law gives us the opportunity to exist as individuals,” Sophie emphasizes as Belgium becomes the first nation to legislate such protections for sex workers, who number in the tens of millions globally. While sex work was decriminalized in Belgium in 2022, this new law sets a precedent that other countries may follow, according to Erin Kilbride of Human Rights Watch, who describes it as a “radical” step forward.
The change follows extensive protests in 2022 advocating for labor rights, spurred by the lack of support during the pandemic. Among the activists was Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, who views her work as a crucial social service, addressing issues of loneliness for many clients. The illegality of her profession prior to 2022 had put her and many others at risk. “Before the law, I worked under precarious conditions and faced unimaginable risks,” Victoria shares.
While supporters celebrate the advancements, critics express concern over the potential normalization of a profession associated with exploitation and abuse. Julia Crumière, a volunteer with an NGO supporting sex workers, warns that this may inadvertently perpetuate violence in a profession that should be avoided.
Other sex workers, like Mel, have often faced dangerous situations, such as being forced into risky sexual acts with clients. “Now, I will have the ability to refuse any act I’m uncomfortable with and have legal protection,” she reveals. This newfound protection could transform the working environment for many; however, Crumière remains skeptical about safety measures like alarm buttons, stating, “In what other job would you need a panic button?”
Under the new law, criminal restrictions will be placed on employers, aimed at dismantling exploitative practices within the industry. Employers with serious criminal backgrounds will be barred from hiring sex workers, giving hope to advocates for safer work conditions.
As the law takes effect, responses remain divided. While many sex workers express relief and optimism for better treatment, others argue for alternative solutions to escape the profession altogether. Nevertheless, the change in Belgium represents a significant shift in labor rights for sex workers, a move described by advocates as essential for their safety and recognition.
With this legislation, Belgium could serve as a model for other countries grappling with the complexities surrounding sex work regulation. Ultimately, sex workers like Mel are hopeful that bringing their profession into the light can lead to positive changes and a safer future. “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead. I finally have a future,” she concludes.
Some names have been changed to protect individuals' safety.
Belgium has made a historic stride towards improving the lives of sex workers with the passage of a new law that grants them maternity leave and pensions, along with other employment rights. Sophie, a mother of five and a sex worker, shares her struggle, stating, “I had to work while I was nine months pregnant." With no option to rest after giving birth via Caesarean, she immediately returned to work to provide for her family. Thanks to the new legislation, sex work will now be acknowledged as a legitimate occupation, allowing workers to claim maternity leave, health insurance, and pensions.
“This law gives us the opportunity to exist as individuals,” Sophie emphasizes as Belgium becomes the first nation to legislate such protections for sex workers, who number in the tens of millions globally. While sex work was decriminalized in Belgium in 2022, this new law sets a precedent that other countries may follow, according to Erin Kilbride of Human Rights Watch, who describes it as a “radical” step forward.
The change follows extensive protests in 2022 advocating for labor rights, spurred by the lack of support during the pandemic. Among the activists was Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, who views her work as a crucial social service, addressing issues of loneliness for many clients. The illegality of her profession prior to 2022 had put her and many others at risk. “Before the law, I worked under precarious conditions and faced unimaginable risks,” Victoria shares.
While supporters celebrate the advancements, critics express concern over the potential normalization of a profession associated with exploitation and abuse. Julia Crumière, a volunteer with an NGO supporting sex workers, warns that this may inadvertently perpetuate violence in a profession that should be avoided.
Other sex workers, like Mel, have often faced dangerous situations, such as being forced into risky sexual acts with clients. “Now, I will have the ability to refuse any act I’m uncomfortable with and have legal protection,” she reveals. This newfound protection could transform the working environment for many; however, Crumière remains skeptical about safety measures like alarm buttons, stating, “In what other job would you need a panic button?”
Under the new law, criminal restrictions will be placed on employers, aimed at dismantling exploitative practices within the industry. Employers with serious criminal backgrounds will be barred from hiring sex workers, giving hope to advocates for safer work conditions.
As the law takes effect, responses remain divided. While many sex workers express relief and optimism for better treatment, others argue for alternative solutions to escape the profession altogether. Nevertheless, the change in Belgium represents a significant shift in labor rights for sex workers, a move described by advocates as essential for their safety and recognition.
With this legislation, Belgium could serve as a model for other countries grappling with the complexities surrounding sex work regulation. Ultimately, sex workers like Mel are hopeful that bringing their profession into the light can lead to positive changes and a safer future. “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead. I finally have a future,” she concludes.
Some names have been changed to protect individuals' safety.
