Sex workers in Belgium gain historic labour rights as law takes effect

In a legal breakthrough, some are calling a ‘revolution,’ sex workers in Belgium can now sign formal employment contracts and gain labour rights equal to those in other professions.

The new law also grants sex workers fundamental rights, including the ability to refuse clients, choose their practices, and stop an act at any time.

Belgian lawmakers voted in May to give sex workers the same protection as other employees with the law coming into effect on Sunday. It follows Belgium’s 2022 decision to decriminalise sex work.

The law aims to combat abuse and exploitation within the industry, ensuring sex workers now have access to health insurance, paid leave, maternity benefits, unemployment support, and pensions.

The legislation also establishes rules on working hours, pay and safety measures — addressing a long-standing gap in legal protection for those in the industry. 

Employers must now obtain authorisation, adhere to strict safety protocols, and meet background requirements, including no prior convictions for sexual assault or human trafficking.  

They must provide clean linens, condoms, and hygiene products, and install emergency buttons in workspaces. 

Independent sex work remains permitted, but unregulated third-party hiring or violations of the legal framework will be prosecuted. 

However, some critics argue the law cannot fully address the stigma and risks tied to sex work, especially for those without documentation. 

Though some countries like Germany or the Netherlands have legalised sex work, none have implemented labour protections as comprehensive as Belgium’s.