Groundbreaking Belgium Law Grants Employment Protections to Sex Workers

Sex workers and their allies are celebrating a groundbreaking law in Belgium that grants employment protections and benefits to sex workers. Belgium became the first European country to decriminalize sex work in 2022, but it was not until May 2024, with the passage of this new legislation, that sex workers were granted the same protections as other laborers. The new law went into effect December 1 and made headlines around the world.

Since the decriminalization of consensual adult sex work in 2022, sex workers have been able to live without the fear of arrest and be candid about how they earn their income, such as listing their occupation on bank loan applications or applying for benefits if unable to work. However, they were still excluded from the benefits and protections associated with formal labor contracts. A formal contract provides employees with access to social security, unemployment benefits, health insurance, family benefits, vacation, and maternity leave. It also grants critical protections against job-related risks and imposes obligations on employers. The new law also grants sex workers specific rights tailored to their profession.