Between expectations and fear: The experiences of female sex workers with the Belgian and Dutch police

• In Event: Experiencing othering: Rethinking police relations with vulnerable groups

Abstract

The interactions between sex workers and law enforcement in Belgium and the Netherlands is predominantly characterized by a dynamic of mistrust and unease. While sex workers may contact police when victimized, they are often unwilling to report incidents due to their fear of disrespectful treatment, moralistic biases, or unintended legal repercussions. This complex relationship highlights a fundamental tension wherein sex workers must navigate between their right to institutional protection and the perceived risk of secondary victimization by police. Additionally, stigma, individual officer attitudes, and primary or secondary experiences play a significant role in shaping their opinions.

A possible influencing factor is the distinct legal framework governing sex work in each country. Belgium adopted a decriminalization approach in 2022, wheras the Netherlands implemented a legalization model, which imposes strict regulations on the profession, including licensing requirements and designated work zones. While the Dutch model offers legal recognition, it also creates bureaucratic hurdles that may push independent sex workers into the unregulated sector, where they have less protection and a more strained relationship with the police due to polices’ focus on regulatory compliance rather than victim protection or support.

The concealment in which female escorts specifically perform their work makes their relationship with police even more complex. Their invisibility makes it difficult for police to do outreach work, and fake appointments made by police create negative experiences. This presentation explores the experiences and opinions of female escorts working in Belgium or the Netherlands regarding interactions with law enforcement, based on 28 in-depth interviews. We explore their willingness to contact the police, and the barriers they experience to do so. Ultimately, we argue that policies aimed at reducing stigma and ensuring respectful treatment by police officers are essential to foster a more cooperative and protective relationship, regardless of the legal framework in place.

Authors

• Pia Struyf, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

• Sofie De Kimpe, Associate Professor - VUB

• Lucas Melgaço, Associate Professor -VUB