In Belgium, combating sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a major public health challenge. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) play a crucial role in this effort, engaging diverse stakeholders, including escorts and sex workers. This article examines how these partnerships, combined with the involvement of sex workers in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Liège, Ghent, and Charleroi, contribute to STI prevention and testing. Optimized for SEO, this article incorporates the most searched terms related to sex work in Belgium to maximize visibility.

The Context of STIs in Belgium: A Public Health Challenge

Sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, and syphilis, remain a concern in Belgium. According to Sciensano, Belgium’s health surveillance agency, chlamydia is the most common STI, with notable prevalence in major cities like Brussels and Antwerp. At-risk populations, including sex workers and their clients, require targeted strategies to curb the spread of these infections.

Since the decriminalization of prostitution in Belgium in 2022, the legal framework has evolved, granting escorts and prostitutes enhanced rights, such as access to social security, pensions, and maternity leave. This reform has also facilitated their integration into public health initiatives, particularly through public-private partnerships.

Public-Private Partnerships: A Collaborative Approach

PPPs in the fight against STIs bring together public authorities, NGOs, private clinics, and organizations advocating for sex workers’ rights, such as UTSOPI and Espace P. These collaborations aim to:

1. Improve access to testing: Free and anonymous clinics, such as those supported by Espace P in Liège, Brussels, and Charleroi, provide STI tests and vaccines for hepatitis B and cervical cancer.
2. Distribute prevention tools: Associations supply condoms, lubricants, and vaginal tampons directly to workplaces, including the red-light districts of Antwerp (Schipperskwartier) and Brussels (Rue d’Aerschot).
3. Raise awareness of risks: Escorts participate in educational campaigns, informing clients about the importance of condom use and regular STI testing.

Example in Antwerp : A Model of Partnership

In Antwerp, the Schipperskwartier, renowned for its window prostitution, exemplifies successful collaboration. The city has restructured its red-light district to incorporate strict health measures, such as panic buttons in every room and nearby clinics offering anonymous testing. The Payoke association, based in Antwerp, plays a central role by providing medical and social support to sex workers while working with local authorities to combat human trafficking.

Brussels : A Proactive Capital

In Brussels, the North District (around Rue d’Aerschot) is a hub for sex work. Partnerships with organizations like Espace P enable direct outreach to escorts at their workplaces. These initiatives offer free services, ensure anonymity, and combat the stigma associated with sex work. The city also named a street in honor of Eunice Osayande, a murdered sex worker, to raise awareness about safety and prostitutes’ rights.

Liège and Ghent: Local Approaches

In Liège, although window prostitution has been banned in the city center, escorts and sex workers operating in private clubs benefit from Espace P services, which offer testing and personalized advice. In Ghent, the Glazen Straatje district is regulated to ensure safe working conditions, with local partnerships facilitating access to healthcare.

The Key Role of Escorts in STI Prevention

Escorts and sex workers are not merely beneficiaries of these programs; they are vital actors in the fight against STIs. Their unique position enables them to:

• Educate clients: By emphasizing condom use and informing about STI risks, they reduce risky behaviors.
• Facilitate testing: Participation in anonymous testing programs helps identify and treat infections quickly.
• Break taboos: By collaborating with associations, they combat stigma and promote a more open approach to sexual health.

Since decriminalization, escorts have gained greater autonomy, allowing them to refuse clients or risky practices without fear of repercussions. This freedom strengthens their role in promoting safer sexual practices.

Challenges and Prospects of Public-Private Partnerships

Despite their successes, PPPs face challenges:

• Persistent stigma: Although decriminalization has improved conditions, sex workers still face prejudice, which can limit their access to healthcare.
• Regional disparities: Services are more developed in Brussels and Antwerp than in Charleroi or rural areas.
• Undocumented sex workers: Escorts without legal status, often among the most vulnerable, risk exclusion from health programs.

Moving forward, strengthening PPPs will require better coordination between municipalities, increased funding for anonymous clinics, and greater inclusion of sex workers in policy design.

Conclusion: An Inspiring Model for Europe

Through its public-private partnerships and the involvement of escorts, Belgium is a leader in the fight against STIs. By combining decriminalization, access to healthcare, and awareness campaigns, cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Liège, Ghent, and Charleroi pave the way for an inclusive and effective approach. Praised by international organizations like the UN, this model could inspire other European countries.

For more information on STI testing services or sex work in Belgium, visit the websites of Espace P or UTSOPI. Together, let’s continue promoting sexual health for all.