Belgium has become first of its kind in the world to recognise sex workers’ rights, offering them the same benefits as other workers, including maternity leave, pensions, health insurance, and sick leave.

Sex workers in Belgium will be able to sign formal employment contracts and gain labor rights on par with those in other professions in a legal breakthrough some call a “revolution.” 

The new law also establishes fundamental rights for sex workers including the right to refuse clients, choose their practices and stop an act at any moment. 

The move follows the country’s 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work.

Under the new regulations, sex workers will 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 protections for those in the industry.

“This is an incredible step forward,” said Isabelle Jaramillo, coordinator of Espace P, an advocacy group involved in drafting the legislation. “It means their profession can finally be recognized as legitimate by the Belgian state.”

“From the employer’s perspective, this will also be a revolution. They’ll have to apply for a state authorization to hire sex workers,” Jaramillo said.