The Global Story
Belgium grants labour rights to sex workers
Dec 2, 2024
Sofia Bettiza, BBC's gender and identity correspondent, dives into Belgium's groundbreaking law granting labor rights to sex workers, making it the first nation to do so. She discusses the implications of this legislation, including health insurance, pensions, and maternity leave, and whether it truly protects workers from exploitation. The conversation also touches on global perspectives on sex work regulation and the empowering impact of recognizing sex work as legitimate labor, reinforced by personal stories and post-pandemic activism.
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Quick takeaways
- Belgium has become the first country to grant labor rights to sex workers, enabling access to essential benefits like health insurance and maternity leave.
- While this new legislation aims to enhance protection for sex workers, it faces criticism for potentially normalizing exploitation within the industry.
Deep dives
Belgium's Landmark Employment Contracts for Sex Workers
Belgium has become the first country to officially provide employment contracts for sex workers, granting them labor rights similar to other professions. This new law allows sex workers to access benefits such as health insurance, pensions, and maternity leave. Previously, sex work in Belgium had been decriminalized, but the new legislation enhances protection and helps normalize the profession. Proponents argue this development could lead to safer working conditions, counteracting the stigmas and vulnerabilities associated with an unregulated industry.
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