PARIS — Beginning this Sunday, sex workers in Belgium will be able to enter into formal employment agreements and access the same labor rights enjoyed by professionals in other fields, marking a significant legal advancement that some are describing as a “revolution.” This new legislation also lays down essential rights for sex workers, including the autonomy to refuse clients, select their own services, and halt any activity at their discretion.
This change is a continuation of Belgium’s 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work, setting the stage for a more structured legal environment around the profession.
With the introduction of these regulations, sex workers will gain access to various employment benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, maternity leave, unemployment assistance, and pension plans. Furthermore, the law outlines specific guidelines concerning work hours, compensation, and safety measures, reaffirming the need for legal protection in a historically overlooked industry.
Isabelle Jaramillo, who leads the advocacy organization Espace P and played a role in crafting this legislation, stated, “This is an incredible step forward. It signifies that the Belgian state can finally recognize their profession as legitimate.”
Jaramillo also mentioned that this law will bring a groundbreaking change from the employers’ standpoint as they will now be required to secure state approval before hiring sex workers. “Previously, employing someone in sex work essentially marked you as a pimp, even if the arrangement was consensual. Now, employers need to apply for state authorization to employ individuals in this sector.”
To comply with the new regulations, employers are obligated to obtain proper authorization, follow stringent safety guidelines, and do not have any previous convictions related to sexual assault or human trafficking. Moreover, they are responsible for providing clean linens, condoms, hygiene items, and emergency buttons in workplaces.
While independent sex work continues to be allowed, any unregulated third-party hiring or breaches of the established legal framework will face legal prosecution.
Despite the positive changes, some critics contend that the law does not completely eliminate the stigma and potential dangers associated with sex work, particularly for undocumented individuals in the trade.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done,” Jaramillo remarked, highlighting the necessity for enhanced training for police and judicial systems to better safeguard marginalized workers.
While countries like Germany and the Netherlands have also legalized sex work, Belgium’s approach to labor protections is more extensive and detailed than what is currently seen in other regions.
