Sophie shared, “I was working when I was nine months pregnant… I couldn’t afford to stop.” This law is poised to ease such burdens, allowing sex workers to enjoy benefits akin to those found across conventional job sectors.
Erin Kilbride of Human Rights Watch praised the legislation as a significant step forward, advocating for similar actions worldwide. While critics argue that the law could normalize a profession often linked to violence and exploitation, many sex workers see it as an essential safety net.
Mel, a seasoned escort, recounted harrowing experiences where financial desperation forced her to work under dangerous conditions, stating, “Now I can refuse clients who make me uncomfortable.”
Victoria, who leads the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, views the law as a necessary victory for dignity and safety, acknowledging past traumas such as being raped by a client while working under illegal circumstances. She emphasized, “If there is no law, there are no protocols to help you.”
The new legislation also regulates pimps, requiring them to follow rules that aim to protect sex workers while permitting them to operate legally—this could drastically alter the landscape for both employers and workers in the industry.
Kris and Alexandra, who run a successful massage business that includes sexual services, expressed optimism that stricter regulations would drive unscrupulous employers out, enabling reputable operators to flourish.
Despite advancements, some activists like Julia Crumière argue that true protection for sex workers is still lacking. She highlighted the need for panic buttons in service rooms, questioning what other career requires such urgent safety measures, arguing it underscores the inherent dangers of sex work.
As Belgium takes a forward step in labor rights for sex workers, many advocate for continuous dialogue on the complexities of regulating the sex industry and ensuring comprehensive protection for all involved. For workers like Mel, the change provides hope for a safer and more rewarding future.
Some names have been altered for confidentiality.
Erin Kilbride of Human Rights Watch praised the legislation as a significant step forward, advocating for similar actions worldwide. While critics argue that the law could normalize a profession often linked to violence and exploitation, many sex workers see it as an essential safety net.
Mel, a seasoned escort, recounted harrowing experiences where financial desperation forced her to work under dangerous conditions, stating, “Now I can refuse clients who make me uncomfortable.”
Victoria, who leads the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, views the law as a necessary victory for dignity and safety, acknowledging past traumas such as being raped by a client while working under illegal circumstances. She emphasized, “If there is no law, there are no protocols to help you.”
The new legislation also regulates pimps, requiring them to follow rules that aim to protect sex workers while permitting them to operate legally—this could drastically alter the landscape for both employers and workers in the industry.
Kris and Alexandra, who run a successful massage business that includes sexual services, expressed optimism that stricter regulations would drive unscrupulous employers out, enabling reputable operators to flourish.
Despite advancements, some activists like Julia Crumière argue that true protection for sex workers is still lacking. She highlighted the need for panic buttons in service rooms, questioning what other career requires such urgent safety measures, arguing it underscores the inherent dangers of sex work.
As Belgium takes a forward step in labor rights for sex workers, many advocate for continuous dialogue on the complexities of regulating the sex industry and ensuring comprehensive protection for all involved. For workers like Mel, the change provides hope for a safer and more rewarding future.
Some names have been altered for confidentiality.
