In a groundbreaking move, Belgium has passed a law allowing sex workers to sign regular job contracts, giving them the same social rights as other employees. This legislation, adopted in May 2024, is designed to regulate the sector more effectively and protect the rights of sex workers.
New Protections and Rights
Key Changes:
Legal Contracts: Sex workers can now sign contracts with approved employers, giving them access to unemployment benefits, health insurance, and maternity leave.
Employer Requirements: Employers must have a clean criminal record, be authorized to operate, and have their headquarters in Belgium. They must also respect workers’ rights to refuse clients and stop a sexual act at any time.
Support from the Sector:
- Alexandra Moreels, owner of an erotic salon, welcomed the law, stating, “It feels good to know what is legally allowed.”
- Kris, co-owner of the salon, emphasized that their establishment already respects the new rules, allowing workers to choose their clients.
Addressing Abuses
Previously, many sex workers in Belgium were paid in cash or under dubious contracts, leading to potential abuse. The new law aims to provide clear rules and protections to prevent exploitation.
Support from Sex Workers:
Manon, a sex worker since she was 19, praised the law, saying, “It must be a job that offers us the same rights as anyone else’s.”
Criticism and Concerns
Not everyone is convinced by the new law. Some feminist groups argue that it commodifies women’s bodies and fails to protect migrant prostitutes and trafficking victims who cannot be hired without work permits.
Critics:
Mireia Crespo, director of ISALA, warned that the law could benefit pimps and traffickers who already operate with significant impunity in Belgium.
A Realistic Approach
Despite the criticism, many industry professionals believe this reform is the most practical way to regulate sex work.
Industry Perspective:
Karin Van Der Elst, owner of Villa Tinto in Antwerp, pointed out, “Sex work exists. And if you don’t do it in the open, it will exist underground.”
Future Implications
The new law raises several questions and will require years to fully assess its impact on sex workers’ living conditions and issues related to trafficking and pimping.
This significant step by Belgium could pave the way for more regulated and safer working conditions for sex workers, marking a shift in how the sector is managed and perceived.
