In a groundbreaking move hailed as a world-first, Belgium has officially enacted legislation that grants sex workers the same employment rights and protections as other professions. This landmark law, which took effect on December 1, 2024, provides sex workers with access to maternity leave, pensions, sick leave, and health insurance, fundamentally transforming their working conditions and social security.
The new legislation follows Belgium's decision in 2022 to decriminalize sex work, a significant step towards recognizing the legitimacy of the profession. Under the new law, sex workers will be able to sign formal employment contracts that entitle them to essential benefits such as annual vacation and family benefits. It also empowers them with rights to refuse clients and set conditions for their work.
"This is a monumental step forward for the rights of sex workers in Belgium," said Mel Meliciousss, a representative from the Belgian Union of Sex Workers (UTSOPI). "We are no longer invisible; we now have the legal recognition and protections that every worker deserves.
The law was developed collaboratively between the Belgian government and various sex worker advocacy groups. It aims to safeguard against exploitation while ensuring that sex workers can operate in safe environments. Employers are now mandated to maintain hygienic premises and provide safety measures such as panic buttons.
Sophie, a sex worker who shared her experience under a pseudonym, expressed relief at the new protections. “For too long, I had to work while pregnant because I couldn’t afford to stop. This law is an opportunity for us to exist as people with rights.”
International organizations have praised Belgium's progressive stance. Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch stated, "This is radical; it’s the best step we have seen anywhere in the world so far. We need every country to adopt similar measures."
While this legislation marks a significant advancement for labor rights in the sex industry, advocates remain vigilant about potential misuse of the laws. UTSOPI has emphasized the importance of ensuring that these rights are not undermined by local regulations that could restrict sex work under the guise of safety or hygiene.