Belgium has become the first country in the world to grant official employment rights to sex workers, marking a groundbreaking approach to labor protections in the sex industry. The new law, which follows the decriminalization of sex work in 2022, provides sex workers with employment contracts, health insurance, pensions, maternity leave, and sick days.
The legislation emerged from months of protests during the Covid pandemic, highlighting the lack of state support for sex workers. Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers (UTSOPI), was a key advocate for the change. She views prostitution as more than just sexual services, describing it as a social service that addresses loneliness and provides emotional support.
Personal stories illustrate the challenges sex workers face. Sophie, a mother of five, worked while nine months pregnant and immediately after a cesarean section because she couldn’t afford to stop. Mel, another sex worker, recalled being forced to perform services without protection during a potential STI outbreak, feeling she had no alternative.
The new law introduces significant protections. Sex workers will now have the right to refuse clients or sexual acts they’re uncomfortable with, and each workplace must have an alarm button connecting workers to a “reference person” for safety.
The legislation also places restrictions on employers. Pimps can operate legally only if they follow strict rules, and those with serious criminal convictions will be prohibited from employing sex workers. Kris Reekmans, who runs a massage parlor with his wife Alexandra, hopes the law will eliminate bad employers while protecting legitimate businesses.
However, the law remains controversial. Critics argue that it normalizes a fundamentally exploitative profession. Julia Crumière from Isala, an NGO supporting street sex workers, believes the law won’t prevent trafficking or abuse. She argues that most women she helps want to leave the profession entirely, not gain labor rights.
Human Rights Watch researcher Erin Kilbride sees the law as a radical and positive step, believing it will significantly reduce employers’ power over sex workers. The organization views this as a potential model for other countries to follow.
Victoria’s personal experience underscores the law’s importance. She previously faced dismissive treatment when reporting a rape, with a police officer suggesting sex workers cannot be raped. The new legislation provides legal protections and recognition that were previously absent.
For many sex workers like Mel, the law represents hope and dignity. “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead,” she says. “I have a future now.”
While the global debate about sex work regulation continues, Belgium’s approach offers a unique perspective on recognizing sex work as legitimate labor and providing workers with fundamental rights and protections.
