Belgium becomes first country to pass law granting sex workers maternity leave, employment benefits

“It’s an opportunity for us to exist as people,” said Sophie, a mother of five who continued working late into her pregnancy due to financial pressures, according to a report by BBC.

The law has been hailed as groundbreaking by human rights advocates. “This is radical,” said Erin Kilbride of Human Rights Watch. “It’s the best step we’ve seen globally to protect sex workers.”

Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers (UTSOPI), explained the significance of the law. “When your job is illegal, there are no protocols to protect you,” she said. Before the changes, Victoria faced unsafe conditions and was even raped by a client. Her complaint to police was dismissed, with an officer stating, “Sex workers can’t be raped”, as reported by BBC.

Critics, however, warn of unintended consequences. Julia Crumière of the NGO Isala argues that sex work inherently exploits women. “It’s not the oldest profession, but the oldest exploitation,” she said, highlighting concerns about normalising an industry she considers fundamentally harmful.

The law also regulates employers, banning those with criminal records and requiring safety measures like alarm buttons in workspaces. Kris Reekmans, who runs a legal massage parlour, supports these measures, saying, “I hope dishonest employers are shut down.”

For sex workers like Mel, the law represents hope. “I can now refuse clients or unsafe acts without fear,” she said. “Bringing this work out of the shadows can only help women.”

(With inputs from BBC)

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