Belgium has introduced a new labor law that extends social benefits and protections to sex workers, including maternity leave, enhanced job security, and explicit requirements for ongoing consent, marking a significant shift in the treatment of sex work in Europe.
Belgium Pioneers Protection for Sex Workers with Landmark Labor Law
Belgium Pioneers Protection for Sex Workers with Landmark Labor Law
A new law in Belgium grants unprecedented rights and protections to sex workers, setting a global standard for labor regulations in the industry.
Belgium has taken a progressive step in labor rights by implementing a groundbreaking law that enhances protections for sex workers. This legislation, which became effective on December 1, 2024, provides unprecedented rights and benefits, positioning Belgium as a leader in global labor standards for the sex industry.
In 2022, Belgium decriminalized sex work, making it the first European country to do so. The recently approved labor law allows sex workers to opt for formal employment contracts, although such contracts are not mandatory. Experts in human rights have noted that this legislation offers the most comprehensive labor rights framework for sex workers seen worldwide.
Under the new law, individuals engaged in sex work—across all genders—will gain access to Belgium’s extensive social security system. This includes vital benefits such as paid maternity and sick leave, unemployment support, and pension contributions.
One of the law’s significant features is its focus on ensuring ongoing consent for sex work activities, safeguarded within employment contracts. Sex workers can refuse clients or specific acts and have the authority to halt any ongoing act, ensuring they are not penalized by their employer for such decisions.
Furthermore, the legislation introduces workplace safety measures, including mandatory emergency buttons in client rooms for immediate help when needed. It enhances job security by providing legal protections against wrongful termination and exploitation by employers.
Crucially, the law also prohibits individuals with convictions for serious crimes, such as rape and trafficking, from engaging sex workers, reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals in the industry.
As Belgium sets this new precedent, it invites other nations to reconsider and potentially reshape their approach to the rights and protections for sex workers.
