Inspired by the Belgium model, union demands labour rights for sex workers in India

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/inspired-by-the-belgium-model-union-demands-labour-rights-for-sex-workers-in-india/article69092159.ece

The Durbar Mahila Samanway Committee (DMSC), one of India’s largest sex worker collectives, held a strategy meeting on January 12, 2025, advocating for labour rights and decriminalisation of sex work. Inspired by Belgium’s recent legislation recognising sex work as a profession, the meeting explored potential reforms for India. Belgium’s law, passed in December 2024, grants sex workers rights like employment contracts, health insurance, and maternity benefits, sparking discussions about its applicability in India. Professor Prabha Kotiswaran noted the challenges of implementing such laws in a country with millions of sex workers. Stakeholders emphasised destigmatising the profession, achieving legal recognition, and including sex workers in labour laws. Suggestions included integrating sex work discussions into education to foster acceptance and involving third parties in policymaking to balance power dynamics. Participants agreed that organising sex workers and addressing intersectionality are crucial for ensuring their inclusion in labour rights frameworks.