The law aims to provide essential protections and a legal framework for sex work, normalizing the profession and reducing risks tied to exploitation. Advocates believe this could set a precedent for other nations to follow.
Under the new law, sex workers in Belgium can now benefit from official employment contracts, health insurance, sick days, and maternity leave—a lifeline for many who juggle work and family responsibilities. For example, one sex worker named Sophie shared her past hardships, recalling her struggles to work through her pregnancy without any support from her employer. With this law, she and others can finally enjoy protections that many take for granted in other fields.
Critics, however, argue that while the law aims to provide safety, it may inadvertently legitimize a profession that can often expose workers to violence and trafficking opportunities. For instance, Julia Crumière, a volunteer at the NGO Isala, expressed concerns over the normalization of sex work amid ongoing violence that many workers face.
The changes come in response to calls from sex workers and advocates, especially during the hardships many faced during the Covid pandemic. The law could lead to better working conditions, improved safety protocols, and a regulated environment where rights are respected.
The legislation allows for the legal operation of "pimps" under strict regulations, ensuring that those with serious criminal records are barred from employing workers. This could potentially weed out harmful employers while creating a safer space for those already in the profession.
For many, the new law symbolizes a fresh start and an opportunity for dignity. Mel, another sex worker, highlighted the importance of feeling empowered to refuse unsafe requests, while Victoria, the president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, emphasized that this movement is also about improving societal perception.
Despite the optimism surrounding these changes, not everyone is in favor. Many workers, according to Julia, long to exit the profession entirely, seeking traditional job opportunities instead.
As Belgium sets this unprecedented example, the global debate on regulating sex work continues—marking this moment as not just a local victory, but a significant chapter in the ongoing journey toward worker's rights for all.
Under the new law, sex workers in Belgium can now benefit from official employment contracts, health insurance, sick days, and maternity leave—a lifeline for many who juggle work and family responsibilities. For example, one sex worker named Sophie shared her past hardships, recalling her struggles to work through her pregnancy without any support from her employer. With this law, she and others can finally enjoy protections that many take for granted in other fields.
Critics, however, argue that while the law aims to provide safety, it may inadvertently legitimize a profession that can often expose workers to violence and trafficking opportunities. For instance, Julia Crumière, a volunteer at the NGO Isala, expressed concerns over the normalization of sex work amid ongoing violence that many workers face.
The changes come in response to calls from sex workers and advocates, especially during the hardships many faced during the Covid pandemic. The law could lead to better working conditions, improved safety protocols, and a regulated environment where rights are respected.
The legislation allows for the legal operation of "pimps" under strict regulations, ensuring that those with serious criminal records are barred from employing workers. This could potentially weed out harmful employers while creating a safer space for those already in the profession.
For many, the new law symbolizes a fresh start and an opportunity for dignity. Mel, another sex worker, highlighted the importance of feeling empowered to refuse unsafe requests, while Victoria, the president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, emphasized that this movement is also about improving societal perception.
Despite the optimism surrounding these changes, not everyone is in favor. Many workers, according to Julia, long to exit the profession entirely, seeking traditional job opportunities instead.
As Belgium sets this unprecedented example, the global debate on regulating sex work continues—marking this moment as not just a local victory, but a significant chapter in the ongoing journey toward worker's rights for all.
