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  • NITDA, BPP, and FRSC emerge worst agencies for customer complaints resolution in November 2024

    NITDA, BPP, and FRSC emerge worst agencies for customer complaints resolution in November 2024

    The ReportGov.Ng, Nigeria’s Official Public Service Complaint website, has listed the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) as the worst-performing government agencies in terms of customer complaints resolution for November 2024.

    This is revealed in the report detailing how government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) fared in responding to complaints in the period.

    According to the report, NITDA received two complaints in the period under review and resolved none.

    BPP received one complaint and could not resolve it, while the FRSC received eight complaints and was unable to resolve any.

    Top 3 agencies

    Meanwhile, the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA), the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) emerged as the top three agencies government agencies responsive to public complaints in November.

    According to the Reportgov data, the FAAN received four complaints within the period under review, and all of them were resolved.

    The NPA and the NCS, which received one complaint each were able to resolve them within the period.

    Why it matters

    The Report.Gov platform was conceived by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC)) established by the immediate past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2016 as part of moves to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

    • The website is to facilitate the escalation and resolution of issues encountered with Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) towards ensuring a more business-friendly environment.
    • This presupposes that every MDA of the government must be responsive to complaints and issues that the people may have during their engagements with them to remove delays and restrictions that come with doing business in Nigeria.
    • Meanwhile, in a 2020 World Bank report, Nigeria’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business report improved from 146 to 131, representing its second-highest annual progress in a decade. Nigeria’s highest scores were in the areas of starting a business, dealing with construction permits, and getting credit. However, the country’s performance was low in other areas, such as registering properties, trading across borders, and resolving insolvencies.

    Most recently, PEBEC’s 2023 EoDB report showed that at the country-wide level, there was a marginal increase in Nigeria’s overall EoDB satisfaction score to 5.69 on a 10-point scale from 5.45 recorded in the inaugural report. While acknowledging this improvement, PEBEC said there is a lot more to be done to improve the business environment.

  • Lagos govt seals Mega Plaza in Lagos Island for discharging untreated washwater into public drain

    Lagos govt seals Mega Plaza in Lagos Island for discharging untreated washwater into public drain

    The Lagos State Government has sealed Mega Plaza on Breadfruit Street, Lagos Island, for discharging untreated wastewater into public drains.  

    The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) enforced the closure after monitoring the property at night and obtaining photographic evidence of violations.  

    In a statement published on the official X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, the government revealed that the facility used a pumping machine at night to discharge untreated wastewater into public drains, polluting the environment and exposing citizens to communicable diseases.

    “The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has continued to demonstrate its dedication to ensuring credible and sustainable wastewater management in the State by once again clamping down on the Mega Plaza on Breadfruit Street, Lagos Island for discharging untreated wastewater into the public drains, through the use of a pumping machine,” the statement read in part.  

    The statement further noted that the General Manager of the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office, Engr. Adefemi Afolabi reiterated the State’s zero tolerance for environmental pollution and degradation.  

    Afolabi stressed that the agency remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring a clean and healthy environment for the benefit of public health.  

    He emphasized that properties and facilities violating environmental laws would face strict sanctions by the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017. 

    What you should know 

    The Lagos State Government, through various agencies, has intensified efforts to ensure strict compliance with sanitation, hygiene, and environmental pollution regulations across the state.  

    A key focus of these initiatives is the monitoring and enforcement against the discharge of untreated wastewater into public drains, a practice that pollutes the environment and exposes citizens to communicable diseases. 

    In September 2024, for instance, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) sealed Cravings & More, a fast food outlet along Egbeda-Idimu Road, for discharging waste into public drains.  

    • This action followed multiple public complaints about the illegal disposal of fats and oils into the drainage system, which caused clogged drains, a proliferation of maggots and houseflies, and foul odors. 
    • Similarly, in February 2024, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) sealed a Jumia outlet located on Herbert Macaulay Way in Yaba. The enforcement was due to the facility’s unauthorized disposal of sewage into the surrounding area, posing significant health and environmental risks.  

    These actions highlight the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting public health and maintaining a clean, habitable environment for all Lagos residents. 

     

     

  • FCCPC probes GTBank, MTN and Air Peace over alleged customer rights violations

    FCCPC probes GTBank, MTN and Air Peace over alleged customer rights violations

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) said it has launched a major inquiry into widespread consumer complaints against leading players in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation sectors comprising GTBank, MTN, and Air Peace. 

    The Commission disclosed this in a statement signed by its Director of  Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, issued on Sunday. 

    According to the statement, the inquisitions, which will begin on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th respectively, are intended to address issues of poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and potential consumer rights violations. 

    Allegations against the companies 

    FCCPC said  Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) is being investigated over reports of network failures that hinder customers from accessing their funds or using banking applications. 

    “In the telecommunications sector, MTN Nigeria faces questions regarding persistent complaints of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer care. 

    “Similarly, Air Peace Limited will address allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, including significant price hikes for bookings on certain domestic routes,” the Commission stated. 

    Legal backing 

    FCCPC said the inquiries are being conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, specifically Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113, which empower the Commission to investigate and resolve practices that undermine consumer rights, disrupt markets, or create unfair competition. 

    • It added that the engagement with these companies would provide a platform to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and enforce compliance with regulatory standards.  
    • The companies will be required to appear before the Commission on designated days to provide information and responses to enable the Commission to make determinations and resolve pending issues promptly. 

    “This action reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, fostering a fair marketplace, and ensuring accountability across all sectors. 

    “We urge consumers to continue to report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC through its official channels,” the Commission stated. 

    What you should know  

    The allegations of network failure against GTB may not be unconnected with the bank’s recent transition to a new core banking application, which disrupted its services for weeks. 

    Last week, the bank issued an apology to all its customers, with explanations that it faced difficulties in the process of transitioning to a new core banking system, Finacle Suite of Core Banking Application. 

  • Nigeria, France sign MoU to foster research, training, and student exchange in minerals sector

    Nigeria, France sign MoU to foster research, training, and student exchange in minerals sector

    Nigeria and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration in research, training, and student exchanges within the minerals sector.  

    The MoU aims to enhance the critical minerals value chain through joint projects promoting knowledge and skills transfer between Franco-Nigerian institutions.  

    The announcement was made in a statement shared on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals, on Sunday.  

    The MoU was signed in France, where President Bola Tinubu is currently on an official working visit, accompanied by several members of his cabinet. Dele Alake signed on behalf of Nigeria, while Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, the Inter-Ministerial delegate for Critical Ores and Metals of France, signed on behalf of France.  

    “I am pleased to share that Nigeria and France have reached an agreement to develop joint projects aimed at promoting and diversifying the critical minerals value chain within the solid minerals sector of both our countries. 

    “We signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes our commitment to collaborate on research, training, and student exchanges between Franco-Nigerian institutions to facilitate knowledge and skills transfer,” Alake’s X post read in part. 

    The statement further highlighted a key aspect of the MoU, which is the commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices. It includes the implementation of projects and programs aimed at reducing the environmental impact of mining, specifically targeting issues such as carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change. 

    More insight  

    The Minister noted that the agreement also includes plans for the establishment of joint extraction and processing projects, which will be supported by co-financing from both the public and private sectors.  

    • This initiative, according to him, is designed to enhance the diversification and security of the supply of critical minerals, essential for energy projects aimed at decarbonization, thus contributing to the overall sustainability of the value chain.  
    • Alake emphasized that both Nigeria and France have committed to adopting international best practices in the execution of these projects.  
    • In pursuing this goal, the two countries aim to optimize both mineral extraction and processing, while simultaneously enhancing the well-being of local communities impacted by mining activities, the statement noted.  

    He stressed that transparency will be at the core of these efforts, ensuring that the benefits of the projects are shared fairly and that all stakeholders remain informed and engaged throughout the entire process.  

     

  • Canada to tackle labor shortage with immigrants in key sectors

    Canada to tackle labor shortage with immigrants in key sectors

    Canada is addressing its growing labour shortage by turning to immigration to sustain its workforce. Immigrants are filling key roles in healthcare, transportation, construction, business, and technology, driving economic growth and meeting critical staffing needs across industries vital to the country’s economy.

    According to Immigration News Canada (INC), immigration is central to sustaining Canada’s workforce, especially as the country faces the challenges of an aging population. It is observed that immigrants contribute to nearly every industry.

    Reports tell that immigrants provide the skills and expertise needed to keep the economy strong and ensure the continued growth of the country.

    In-demand job sectors in Canada

    From healthcare and transportation to construction and technology, immigrants’ contributions are not only addressing immediate workforce gaps but also supporting long-term growth in sectors critical to the country’s prosperity. Sectors as the ones listed below:

    Healthcare: a lifeline sustained by immigrants 

    Immigrants make up a significant portion of Canada’s healthcare workforce, INC reports. In a sector that employs over 1.9 million people, one in four healthcare workers is foreign-born.

    • With more than 420,000 healthcare professionals expected to retire in the next decade, immigrants are essential in addressing the staffing shortages.
    • Facts note that they make up 25% of registered nurses and 42% of nurse aides, playing a crucial role in addressing staffing shortages in nursing and residential care facilities.
    • They also fill specialized roles, accounting for 43% of pharmacists, 37% of physicians, 45% of dentists, and 61% of dental technologists.
    • As Canada’s aging population drives demand for home health care services, immigrants are stepping in to provide essential care, ensuring accessibility and quality.
    • With healthcare demands on the rise, reports tell that immigrants will remain key to maintaining the stability and quality of the system.

    Transportation: keeping Canada moving 

    The transportation sector is another critical area supported by immigrants, with over 800,000 workers ensuring the delivery of goods and services across the country.

    • Immigrants represent 35% of truck transportation workers and own 56% of trucking businesses. They also make up 43% of the public transit workforce and 25% of air transportation employees.
    • INC informs that 25% of transportation workers are aged 55 or older, and the sector is facing a significant wave of retirements in the next decade.
    • Immigrants also account for 26% of postal service workers and 18% of those in rail transportation. Through their contributions, they help maintain Canada’s transportation networks, ensuring the continued flow of goods and services vital to the nation’s economy.

    Construction: building Canada’s future 

    • Canada’s residential construction sector, which employs over 600,000 workers, relies heavily on immigrants to meet the growing demand for skilled labour.
    • With a significant portion of the workforce approaching retirement, immigrants fill key roles in construction, particularly in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work; especially as 18% of skilled tradespeople are expected to retire in the next decade.
    • They contribute significantly across various sectors: 41% of architects and 40% of civil engineers are immigrants, driving innovative housing solutions.
    • Additionally, 24% of construction managers are immigrants. Immigrants also make up 20% of roofers, 16% of electricians, 15% of carpenters, and 14% of plumbers, showcasing their diverse skills in the trades.

    Business: immigrants drive economic growth 

    Immigrants are also significant contributors to Canada’s business sector. Over 800,000 immigrants are self-employed, many of whom own businesses that provide jobs and support local economies. Immigrants own 53% of restaurant businesses and 52% of grocery stores, and they lead 40% of software publishing companies.

    INC reports that “the business sector employs nearly 12.5 million Canadians, with immigrant entrepreneurs and business owners at the forefront of innovation and job creation.

    More than 800,000 immigrants are self-employed, and 250,000 of these have paid employees.”

    Food services: keeping Canadians fed 

    • The food services sector is one of the largest employers in Canada, with over 1 million workers. Immigrants represent more than 51% of food and beverage businesses with paid staff and make up over a quarter of the workforce. Their contributions help meet the increasing demand for food services across the country.
    • By owning and operating food businesses, immigrants help fuel the sector’s growth and innovation.
    • According to reports, in 2021, over 2,400 recent immigrants were business owners, fueling growth in the industry.
    • Immigrants also make up over a quarter of the workforce in food services, helping restaurants and other establishments meet increasing demand. Their contributions are not only sustaining the industry but also driving innovation in Canada’s culinary landscape.

    Technology and science: pioneering innovation 

    • Canada’s technology and science sectors also benefit greatly from immigrant contributions. Immigrants make up 35% of computer programmers, 43% of engineers, and 57% of chemists.
    • Many immigrants come to Canada as international students, particularly in STEM fields, and stay to contribute to the country’s technological advancements.
    • According to reports, immigrants bring essential skills to Canada’s science and technology sectors. Their expertise is used to be critical in ensuring Canada remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global tech landscape.
  • Nollywood’s piracy issue indicates a distribution problem – Barr. Isioma Idigbe

    Nollywood’s piracy issue indicates a distribution problem – Barr. Isioma Idigbe

    Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, stands as a pillar of African storytelling, culture, and economic potential, capable of delivering over 200% returns with the right investments.

    However, its growth is hindered by piracy, which highlights a deeper issue: the lack of robust distribution infrastructure necessary to fully monetize its demand.

    At the recent African Film Finance Forum (AFFF) in Lagos, industry experts highlighted how piracy—often seen solely as a threat—actually points to a supply-side issue that requires immediate attention.

    “Piracy proves there is demand; the issue lies in supply,” explained Barrister Isioma Idigbe, Partner at Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors. “Without strong distribution channels, we’re failing to fully monetize the market’s appetite for Nollywood content.” he noted.

    Moses Babatope, CEO of NILE Group, shared that while streaming platforms created excitement around Nollywood in recent years, their recent pullback serves as a reminder of the industry’s reliance on traditional distribution models like cinemas.

    “We got carried away by the streaming bubble,” he noted. “But the reality is that cinemas remain the cornerstone of sustainable film industries globally.” 

    Babatope highlighted the resilience of the Nigerian box office, which has seen significant growth despite macroeconomic challenges.

    “In 2024, we’re looking at N12 billion to N13 billion in box office revenue, with local films accounting for over 55% of this.

    “That’s a historic milestone, but it’s clear we need to bring cinema closer to underserved audiences if we’re to sustain this momentum,” he said.

    He also stressed the need for localized solutions, such as leveraging existing community centers and youth clubs to make cinema more accessible and affordable.

    More Insights

    The consensus among panelists was that Nollywood’s future depends on a balanced approach to funding, with equal emphasis on production and distribution.

    Ben Murray-Bruce, Founder of the Silverbird Group, called for increased government support.

    “The film industry isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a critical value chain like manufacturing,” he said. 

    Murray-Bruce urged financial institutions to prioritize funding for cinemas, arguing that doing so would create jobs, drive economic growth, and make Nollywood more resilient.

    “If the government can fund non-performing refineries, it can certainly invest in an industry with a return on investment potential,” he added.

    • Mary Ephraim-Egbas, convener of AFFF, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of collaboration between the entertainment and financial sectors. She also emphasized partnerships with telecom companies to expand distribution and combat piracy.

    “The African film industry generates over $20 billion annually, employing thousands of people,” Ephraim-Egbas noted. “This is the right time to bridge gaps in the value chain and unlock Nollywood’s full potential.” 

    • Idigbe concluded with a broader perspective, comparing Nigeria’s challenges to those of Brazil and South Africa, where foreign content dominates.
    • However, she showed an opportunity for Nigeria to become a hub for international production, particularly as global markets look to reduce costs.

    “We have the talent, the audience, and the demand,” Idigbe said. “What we need now is an ecosystem that supports distribution, making it easier for Nigerians to access and enjoy local content while ensuring investors see meaningful returns.” 

    • By addressing the supply-side constraints highlighted by piracy, Nollywood can move from being a rising star to a global powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
  • Holcim to exit Nigeria sells major stake at Lafarge Africa to Huaxin Cement for $1bn

    Holcim to exit Nigeria sells major stake at Lafarge Africa to Huaxin Cement for $1bn

    Swiss building materials giant, Holcim AG has announced the sale of its Nigerian business to China’s Huaxin Cement Co. in a deal valued at $1 billion.

    This transaction involves Holcim’s 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa PLC, and it is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

    This was disclosed in a statement issued by Holcim on Sunday.

    The company is divesting its stake in Lafarge Africa as part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on core markets.

    “Holcim has signed an agreement with Huaxin Cement Ltd to sell its entire 83.81% shareholding in Lafarge Africa PLC, at an equity value of USD 1 billion on a 100% basis.  

    The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to customary and regulatory approvals,” the company stated.

    Details of the deal 

    The divestment in Nigeria aligns with Holcim’s plans to spin off and list its North American business in the US next year.

    • The company aims to capitalize on strong demand in the North American market driven by a housing shortage and regulatory pressures for sustainable construction materials.
    • The deal forms part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline its portfolio by shedding non-core assets.
    • The sale is in line with Holcim’s focus on optimizing operations and expanding in markets where demand for its products, such as roofing and energy-efficient building materials, is growing rapidly.

    Previous disposals in Africa 

    This sale is not Holcim’s first divestment on the continent. In 2021, Holcim closed the sale of its business in Zambia, representing a 75% stake in the company, to the Chinese cement group Huaxin for an enterprise value of USD 150 million for 100% of the company.

    The deal was closed following approvals from Chinese and Zambian authorities.

    Holcim’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, described the divestment as part of the company’s transformation towards becoming a leader in sustainable building solutions, enabling investments in growth opportunities, and praised Huaxin as a trusted partner suited to advancing the Zambian business.

    “This divestment is another step in our transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions giving us the flexibility to continue investing in attractive growth opportunities. Huaxin has been a trusted partner for many years and we see the company as an ideal owner to further develop the business in Zambia.” 

    The sale of Holcim’s business in Zambia follows the divestment of the Indian Ocean cluster, which was closed at the end of October 2021. Since 2019 the company has achieved over USD 3.1 billion in divestments.

    What you should know 

    • Holcim AG is a Swiss-based global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
    • The company specializes in cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building products, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling.
    • The company has over 70,000 employees worldwide.
  • Major economic agreements signed in Tinubu’s state visit to France

    Major economic agreements signed in Tinubu’s state visit to France

    President Bola Tinubu’s recent three-day state visit to France marked a significant achievement in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and France.

    The visit saw the formal inauguration of Zenith Bank’s operations in France and the signing of key agreements aimed at fostering long-term collaboration in critical sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and solid minerals.

    France is one of Nigeria’s key European trading partners, with French companies investing in sectors such as oil, infrastructure, and telecommunications.

    The cultural exchange between the two countries is also notable, with many Nigerians studying in France and both nations actively promoting arts and education.

    Key highlights from the visit

    1) Zenith Bank formally inaugurated its operations in France.

    2) UBA Group signed an agreement to commence operations in Paris.

    3) Letter of Intent signed between the Nigerian government and the French Development Agency (AFD) on long-term support for Nigeria’s energy access and transition, sustainable agriculture, and food security.

    4) MoU signed between the Nigerian government, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and the French government to develop joint projects focused on diversifying and promoting the critical minerals value chain in both countries

    5) Nigeria and France committed to enhancing collaboration in infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, the agricultural value chain, renewable energy, and human capital development

    UBA Group signed an agreement to commence operations in Paris

    • United Bank for Africa (UBA) signed a key agreement during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to France, marking a major step in its global expansion.
    • The agreement, signed by UBA Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and French Finance Minister Antoine Armand, ensures UBA’s full banking operations in France.
    • Elumelu highlighted that this move strengthens UBA’s commitment to offering seamless banking services not only in Africa but also to French and European customers engaging with Africa.

    “Expanding into France is a natural progression, with Paris serving as our European Union hub, as we continue to bring Africa and the world together, through innovative financial solutions. Paris will join London, New York, and Dubai, as a critical component of our unique global network,” Elumelu said

    Zenith Bank formally inaugurated its operations in France

    Zenith Bank made significant strides in expanding its operations in Europe during President Tinubu’s state visit to France.

    The French market offers Zenith Bank the opportunity to deepen its international expansion, particularly in serving the growing needs of African businesses and investors in Europe.

    The bank’s inauguration of its services in France marks a notable step for the Nigerian banking giant, solidifying its footprint in one of the world’s leading financial hubs.

    Letter of Intent signed between the Nigerian and French Development Agency (AFD)

    Also on President Tinubu’s state visit to France, a Letter of Intent was signed between Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the French Development Agency (AFD) CEO, Remi Rioux.

    • The agreement focuses on long-term collaboration to support Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The partnership will facilitate funding for key areas such as infrastructure development, agriculture, food security, healthcare, and human capital development, including education in STEM fields.
    • The AFD has committed to providing over €300 million in financial and technical assistance across all Nigerian regions, focusing on energy transition, sustainable agriculture, and the improvement of agro-logistic hubs.

    The agreement further emphasizes the importance of removing fiscal barriers and ensuring efficient project implementation to enhance mutual trade between the two nations.

    Nigeria and France to foster collaboration in the solid minerals sector

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Nigeria and France to foster collaboration in the solid minerals sector.

    • Dr Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals signed for Nigeria while the Inter-Ministerial delegate for Critical Ores and Metals of the Republic of France, Mr Benjamin Gallezot, signed on behalf of France.
    • This partnership will focus on the development of critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are key to advancing clean energy technologies. The two countries will also collaborate on research, training, and student exchanges to promote knowledge transfer.
    • A critical component of the agreement is the commitment to sustainable mining activities, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of mining. The MoU includes co-financed joint extractive projects, ensuring diversification and security of critical minerals while supporting energy transition projects.

    Additionally, the partnership aims to remediate over 2,000 abandoned mining pits across Nigeria, leveraging France’s expertise in sustainable mining.

    Development of critical infrastructure and long-term support for agriculture and food security

    President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron also signed two agreements in Paris focused on critical infrastructure development, including healthcare, transportation, and agricultural value chains, as well as renewable energy and human capital development.

    • The partnership, backed by over 300 million Euros in diverse financial and technical assistance programs, will span all geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
    • Both nations have committed to enhancing mutual trade, improving cross-border services, and eliminating fiscal barriers while protecting labor rights.
    • The agreements reached during President Tinubu’s visit laid the foundation for a strong and lasting Nigeria-France collaboration, with far-reaching implications for both nations’ economic growth and development.
  • Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium has set a new benchmark in Europe by formally recognizing sex work as a legitimate profession, granting workers the same employment rights as those in other sectors.

    This historic legislation, passed in May and enacted on Sunday, allows sex workers to sign formal contracts and access critical benefits such as health insurance, pensions, family allowances, maternity leave, and paid vacations.

    The legal shift builds on Belgium’s 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work, which also narrowed the definition of pimping.

    This adjustment ensured that sex workers could access essential services, such as banking, insurance, transportation, and accounting, without fear of discrimination or legal repercussions.

    The new law goes even further, offering sex workers labor rights and protections on par with other professions, addressing long-standing inequities in the industry.

    The legislation guarantees sex workers the fundamental rights to refuse clients, set the terms of any act, and halt an act at any moment.

    What this means

    Employers hiring sex workers are now required to obtain official authorization and meet stringent background checks, including having no prior convictions for sexual assault, human trafficking, or fraud.

    • Additionally, employers must maintain clean and sanitary premises, provide hygiene products, and install panic buttons for enhanced safety.
    • Employers are prohibited from dismissing an employee who refuses a client or declines to perform a specific act, further strengthening worker protections.
    • These changes aim to ensure sex workers are treated equitably while creating safer working environments.
    • The reforms also address issues faced by sex workers before the introduction of labor protections.
    • According to UTSOPI, Belgium’s sex worker union, many workers previously felt compelled to continue working late into pregnancy or past retirement age due to a lack of financial safety nets.
    • The introduction of pensions, unemployment benefits, and other rights now offers a much-needed framework for long-term security.

    What to know

    The legislation has been hailed as a “revolution” by advocates. Isabelle Jaramillo, coordinator of Espace P, described it as a transformative step that legitimizes the profession in the eyes of the state and improves conditions for both workers and employers.

    Mel Meliciousss, a sex worker and member of UTSOPI, celebrated the law’s enactment, saying, “People who are already working in the industry will be much more protected [ed], and also people who are going to work in the industry also know what their rights are.”

    • Despite its groundbreaking nature, the law has not been without criticism.
    • Advocates argue that it does not fully address the stigma or challenges faced by undocumented sex workers.
    • Nevertheless, Belgium’s move is a significant step in integrating comprehensive labor protections into one of the world’s oldest professions, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
  • Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand are becoming prime destinations for skilled workers seeking new opportunities in 2025.

    These countries offer strong economic prospects, competitive salaries, and efficient immigration pathways, making them attractive options for professionals looking to relocate.

    According to the DAAD Scholarship, these nations also provide clear routes to citizenship, ensuring long-term success for workers.

    They are as listed below:

    Canada: strong economy and clear immigration pathways

    Reports inform that Canada stands out for its competitive salaries and immigration systems, which are designed to attract skilled professionals. The average salary in Canada is CAD 60,000 annually, with tech and STEM roles offering six-figure salaries. The country’s immigration pathways, including the Express Entry, Global Talent Stream, and Provincial Nominee Programs, have contributed to it being a top choice for skilled workers.

    The Express Entry system typically processes most applications in six months or less once a complete application is submitted. This quick processing time is one of the reasons it is popular.

    In addition to strong economic prospects, reports inform that Canada offers a stable economy with low inflation, ensuring that workers’ earnings retain value. With just three years of permanent residency, workers can apply for citizenship.

    Germany: a growing economy with various visa options

    Germany is another top destination for skilled professionals, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and manufacturing. The average salary in Germany is €50,000 annually, and industries like engineering and IT offer higher pay. Germany’s immigration system includes options like the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), which allows skilled workers with at least two years of experience to directly enter the job market.

    • Germany’s Opportunity Card has made it easier for skilled workers to find employment. It provides a direct route for professionals to settle and work in Germany.
    • The country also offers other work visa options such as the EU Blue Card and visas for shortage occupations. According to reports, the country’s stable economy and manageable inflation allow workers to retain purchasing power.

    The path to gaining citizenship in Germany takes about eight years, but this timeline is shorter for those married to German citizens. After acquiring German citizenship, individuals become EU citizens, opening up opportunities in 26 other countries.

    New Zealand: career growth and a high quality of life

    According to DAAD Scholarship, New Zealand offers both career opportunities and a high standard of living.

    • The average salary is NZD 70,000, with healthcare, IT, and skilled trades offering higher wages. The country’s immigration system actively seeks skilled workers with programs like the Essential Skills Work Visa, Specific Purpose Work Visa, and Green List occupations.
    • Reports show that New Zealand is a prime destination for skilled workers, especially with the Green List occupations. These programs help workers find jobs in areas where there is a demand.

    New Zealand’s path to citizenship is one of the shortest globally, with workers eligible to apply after five years of residence. The country, according to reports, is commended for its low crime rates; making it a safe and welcoming place to live. The stable economy and low inflation ensure that the cost of living remains manageable, while workers’ earnings retain value.

    Planning your move: a strategic approach to applications

    While applying for jobs and visas in Canada, Germany, and New Zealand is possible, reports caution that it requires careful planning.

    Each country has its visa requirements and processing times, so it is important to prioritize applications. Consulting immigration experts can help ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly.

    A strategic approach includes applying sequentially to save resources and focusing on the most suitable destination. It is also crucial to consider factors such as job markets, cultural fit, and family needs in each country. This method can help increase the chances of successfully securing a work visa and permanent residency.