In A Historic Turn, This Country Giving Pensions To Sex Workers!

Belgium has made history by becoming the first country in the world to pass a law that recognizes the rights of sex workers, granting them employment benefits similar to those enjoyed by other professions. This groundbreaking legislation, which came into effect on December 1, 2024, provides sex workers with access to official employment contracts, health insurance, pensions, maternity leave, and sick days. The law marks a significant shift in how sex work is viewed and regulated, following the decriminalization of sex work in Belgium in 2022.

Evolution of Sex Work Legislation in Belgium

The new law was born out of protests in 2022, which highlighted the lack of state support for sex workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Activists and sex workers alike have long argued for better protections and recognition of their rights. Erin Kilbride from Human Rights Watch described the new legislation as “radical” and “the best step we have seen anywhere in the world so far,” emphasizing its potential to set a precedent for other nations.

Sophie, a sex worker and mother of five, expressed her relief at the new law, stating, “It’s an opportunity for us to exist as people.” Many sex workers have faced financial pressures that forced them to continue working under unsafe conditions, often compromising their health and safety.

Key Features of the New Law

Under Belgium’s new legislation, several critical rights and protections have been established for sex workers:

Employment Contracts: Sex workers are now entitled to official employment contracts that provide social coverage and adhere to regulations regarding working hours and remuneration.

Social Benefits: The law grants access to health insurance, pensions, maternity leave, and sick days—benefits previously unavailable to those in the profession.

Safety Measures: Each room where sexual services are provided must be equipped with an alarm button that connects sex workers with a designated “reference person.” This measure aims to enhance safety and provide immediate assistance if needed.

Client Rights: Sex workers now have the right to refuse clients or specific sexual services without fear of dismissal or retaliation from employers.

Regulation of Employers: The law imposes strict regulations on employers in the sex industry. Individuals convicted of serious crimes will not be allowed to employ sex workers.
These provisions are designed to create a safer working environment for sex workers while also recognizing their contributions to society.

Reactions from the Community

The new law has been met with enthusiasm from many within the sex work community. Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers (UTSOPI), highlighted its significance by stating that without legal protections, sex workers had no protocols to help them in times of need. She shared her own traumatic experiences as a former escort, including a police encounter where she was told that “sex workers can’t be raped,” illustrating the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals in this profession.

However, not everyone views the legislation as a panacea. Critics argue that while the law provides essential protections, it may not adequately address underlying issues such as trafficking and exploitation within the industry. Julia Crumière from Isala, an NGO supporting street-based sex workers, expressed concerns about normalizing an inherently violent profession. She stated that legitimizing sex work could lead to increased exploitation rather than improved conditions.

A Global Perspective on Sex Work Legislation

Belgium’s progressive approach places it among countries like Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, and Turkey, where sex work is legal but often lacks comprehensive protections for workers. The establishment of employment rights for sex workers in Belgium sets a new global standard that other nations may look to emulate.

As discussions around decriminalization and regulation continue worldwide, Belgium’s legislation serves as a model for how countries can balance the rights of individuals engaged in sex work with broader societal concerns about safety and exploitation. Advocates hope this landmark law will inspire other nations to adopt similar measures that prioritize human rights and dignity for all workers.

Conclusion: A Step Forward for Human Rights

Belgium’s new law represents a significant advancement in recognizing the rights of sex workers and providing them with essential protections akin to those enjoyed by other professions. By granting access to benefits such as maternity leave and health insurance, this legislation acknowledges the humanity of sex workers and their right to safe working conditions.

As Belgium leads the way in this crucial area of human rights, it is imperative for other countries to consider similar reforms that respect and protect individuals engaged in sex work. The success of this legislation may pave the way for more inclusive policies worldwide that recognize the complexities of labor rights within marginalized communities.