Under a historic new law, Belgium has set a precedent by affording sex workers essential employment rights, including maternity leave, pensions, and health insurance. The law comes as a response to the lack of support during the Covid-19 pandemic and aims to officially recognize sex work as a legitimate profession.
Sophie, a mother of five and a sex worker, shares her struggles of working while pregnant, highlighting the dire financial circumstances that forced her to continue working despite the risks. “I couldn’t afford to stop because I needed the money," she reveals. With this new legislation, sex workers now have the right to official employment contracts, which advocates argue will significantly enhance their lives.
Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch praises the move, calling it “radical” and emphasizing the need for similar laws in other nations. “We need every country to be moving in that direction,” she asserts, highlighting that tens of millions of sex workers exist worldwide.
However, critics raise concerns about the implications of normalizing sex work, arguing that it can lead to exploitation. Julia Crumière, a volunteer with the NGO Isala, warns that such a move does not address the fundamental issues of trafficking and abuse within the industry. She reflects on the inherent dangers of sex work, emphasizing the need for safety protocols that the law attempts to implement.
The legal changes arose from extensive protests advocating for better protections and rights for sex workers, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. One of the activists leading this charge is Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers (UTSOPI), who argues for the recognition of sex work as a crucial social service. She recalls the challenges she faced before the law, including unsafe working conditions and being subjected to violent client behavior.
Certain stipulations of the new law allow for the legal operation of businesses within sex work, provided that employers adhere to strict regulations, ensuring that those with criminal records are barred from employment. Kris Reekmans, a proprietor in the industry, supports the laws intended to weed out predatory employers while advocating for a supportive environment for workers.
While the law aims to enhance the safety and rights of sex workers, some still express a desire to exit the industry altogether, viewing the new provisions as insufficient. Many are inclined to seek safer, alternative employment opportunities, away from the complexities of sex work.
In implementing requirements for panic buttons in private sexual service rooms, the law acknowledges the prevailing risks. However, critics question whether any measure can fully mitigate the dangers associated with sex work.
As discussions continue internationally regarding the regulation and recognition of sex work, many, like Mel, express hope for the future. “I am very proud that Belgium is so far ahead,” she remarks, highlighting the newfound opportunities and rights for sex workers in Belgium.
