Belgium has passed a law granting sex workers the same rights and protections as other workers, including maternity leave, pensions, and legal safeguards against exploitation.

According to media reports, the legislation follows protests in 2022, where sex workers demanded state support after being excluded from government assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employers are required to meet stringent standards, including maintaining hygienic premises and providing clean linens.

The Belgian Union of Sex Workers has praised the legislation as a major step towards ending discrimination against their profession.

International organizations, such as Human Rights Watch, have further urged other nations to adopt similar measures.