Sex workers in Belgium now have maternity leave and sick pay in world first for employment rights

Belgium has implemented a landmark law granting sex workers formal employment contracts with benefits such as sick pay and maternity leave. This legislation, effective Sunday, is the first of its kind, providing sex workers with equal rights and protections typically afforded to other workforce sectors, including health insurance and unemployment benefits.

Under this new framework, sex workers can refuse service to clients or specific acts and may halt any activity at any time. Employers must now obtain a government license, contingent upon meeting criteria such as a clean criminal record concerning rape or human trafficking. Employers are also mandated to provide condoms, clean linens, and emergency alarm systems in workers’ rooms.

Prior to this law, contracts with pimps were deemed legally void due to the illegality of such arrangements, akin to contracts facilitating illegal drug trades.

Globally, sex workers face discrimination and violence, with only a few countries like Germany and the Netherlands having legalized sex work. This new law in Belgium follows the 2021 decriminalization of sex work, which lifted penalties on buyers and sellers but did not previously provide access to social protection. Decriminalization was pivotal in reducing violence against sex workers but was criticized for not going far enough to ensure equity in rights compared to other workers.

Despite its progress, the new law does not encompass independent or online sex workers, nor those in pornographic films, prompting advocates to pursue expanded rights. “We are in the door and now we are going to fight for the others’ rights,” advocates emphasize, acknowledging the law as a significant yet incomplete step forward.