Under this transformative law, sex workers in Belgium will now receive official employment contracts that ensure health insurance, maternity leave, and pensions, marking a significant advancement in rights for this often marginalized group. Sophie, a mother of five and sex worker, expressed her relief, saying, “It’s an opportunity for us to exist as people.” This law was spurred by protests highlighting the difficulties faced by sex workers and the lack of support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the legalization of sex work was achieved in Belgium in 2022, the new law aims to provide safety and rights comparable to other professions. Victoria, the president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, highlighted the importance of legal structures that can protect workers, preventing situations where they are coerced into unsafe acts. “This law gives people the tools to make us safer,” she noted.
The legislation also sets out regulations for employers, including that those with serious criminal convictions cannot employ sex workers, aiming to diminish exploitation and create a more respectful working environment. This aspect has been welcomed by some employers who affirm their intention to provide secure working conditions for their staff.
Despite the optimism surrounding this new framework, critics maintain that the inherent dangers of sex work will persist, emphasizing that the normalization of the profession raises concerns about safety and exploitation. Julia Crumière from Isala, an NGO supporting sex workers, articulated her fears that legislation cannot eliminate the risks associated with this line of work.
As authorities grapple with how to manage the complexities of the sex industry, this move by Belgium symbolizes a daring shift towards the recognition of sex work as a legitimate profession deserving of rights and protections. For many, like Mel, this represents hope for the future, as she reflects on how this law could uplift the community, saying, “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead.”
With the world watching, Belgium's pioneering approach may set a precedent that could inspire similar movements internationally, promoting the rights and safety of sex workers wherever they are found.
While the legalization of sex work was achieved in Belgium in 2022, the new law aims to provide safety and rights comparable to other professions. Victoria, the president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, highlighted the importance of legal structures that can protect workers, preventing situations where they are coerced into unsafe acts. “This law gives people the tools to make us safer,” she noted.
The legislation also sets out regulations for employers, including that those with serious criminal convictions cannot employ sex workers, aiming to diminish exploitation and create a more respectful working environment. This aspect has been welcomed by some employers who affirm their intention to provide secure working conditions for their staff.
Despite the optimism surrounding this new framework, critics maintain that the inherent dangers of sex work will persist, emphasizing that the normalization of the profession raises concerns about safety and exploitation. Julia Crumière from Isala, an NGO supporting sex workers, articulated her fears that legislation cannot eliminate the risks associated with this line of work.
As authorities grapple with how to manage the complexities of the sex industry, this move by Belgium symbolizes a daring shift towards the recognition of sex work as a legitimate profession deserving of rights and protections. For many, like Mel, this represents hope for the future, as she reflects on how this law could uplift the community, saying, “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead.”
With the world watching, Belgium's pioneering approach may set a precedent that could inspire similar movements internationally, promoting the rights and safety of sex workers wherever they are found.
