The Law of July 13, 2023: What Changes for Sex Workers

The Law of July 13, 2023: What It Changes for Sex Workers

The law of July 13, 2023 aims to better protect everyone from gender-based violence, including sex workers. Here is what you need to know if you work in the sex industry in Belgium.

Recognition of the Vulnerability of People in Prostitution

• The law explicitly recognizes that people involved in prostitution (sex workers, escorts, etc.) may be in a situation of vulnerability. This means that authorities must take this reality into account in all their decisions and actions.
• If you are a victim of violence (physical, psychological, sexual, economic, or related to honor) because of your activity, the law provides for specific protections.

Key Definitions for Sex Workers

• Gender-based violence: Any violence suffered because you are a woman, or because you engage in an activity considered feminine, such as sex work.
• Non-intimate femicide: If a sex worker is killed in the context of sexual exploitation, trafficking, or sexual violence, the law considers this a non-intimate femicide, which increases the seriousness of the offense and the protection for victims.

Your Rights if You Are a Victim of Violence

• Appropriate reception: If you file a complaint for violence related to your activity, you have the right to be received in a discreet location by a police officer trained for such situations.
• Support: You may request to be accompanied by a person of your choice during your interview with the police or judiciary (unless this would interfere with the investigation).
• Translation: If you do not understand French, Dutch, or German well, you are entitled to a free interpreter and translation of the main elements of your complaint.
• Information: The police must inform you of your rights, available support (medical, psychological, housing), and possible protection measures (restraining orders, anti-approach alarms, etc.).
• Protection: If you are in danger, protection measures can be put in place for you and your children (for example, removal of the aggressor, confidential address).
• No prejudice: If you refuse a protection measure, this does not affect your other rights.

Status of Foreign Nationals or Undocumented Persons

• If you are a foreign national, even without papers, and you file a complaint for violence related to your activity, the police must inform the Immigration Office of your status as a victim and your need for protection. This may help you obtain protection or a special status.

Risk Assessment and Follow-up

• For every complaint or report, the police must use a risk assessment tool to better understand your situation and adapt protection to your needs.

Training for Police Officers and Magistrates

• Police officers and magistrates now receive specific training on the violence experienced by people in prostitution, to better welcome and protect you.

Key Points to Remember

• You are recognized as potentially vulnerable because of your activity.
• You have enhanced rights if you are a victim of violence related to your work.
• You can request help, be accompanied, and benefit from protection measures, even if you are undocumented.
• The police and judiciary must treat you with respect and discretion, and are trained to understand your situation.

Do not hesitate to seek advice from a specialized association or contact the police if you are a victim of violence. This law is here to protect you.