EU refuses to impose a blanket ban on “conversion therapies”

The European Union has refused to impose a blanket ban on LGBTQI+ “conversion therapies”, harmful practices that claim to “change” a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity across its 27 member states.

In April, the European Parliament voted in favour of a proposal to impose such a ban at EU level. The matter was then referred to the European Commission, the EU’s main executive body. The Commission has made it clear that the EU does not have the power to force member states to adopt such a ban. The reason given is that legislation on health and civil matters falls within the domestic competence of member states. .

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has strongly condemned the practice:

“Conversion therapies have no place in our Union. The EU proudly stands with the LGBTIQ+ community and reaffirms its vision of a Union of Equality, a place where everyone can live freely, openly and authentically.”

In April, 405 MEPs voted in favour of an EU-wide ban on conversion ‘therapies’ in Europe.

The European Commission has until 18 May 2026 to respond officially to the 1.2 million EU citizens who signed the European Citizens’ Initiative calling for a ban on these torturous practices.

Powered by Froala Editor