Conversion therapy now punishable in the Netherlands

The Dutch Senate on Tuesday approved a ban on conversion therapy. The new law prohibits treatments that claim to "cure" a person of their sexual orientation or gender identity. COC Netherlands welcomed the decision and described it as a victory for survivors.

"At last, justice for victims who often suffer the consequences of conversion practices for the rest of their lives," said COC chair Myrtille Danse following the Senate's decision. "At last, a clear message: 'being cured' is a myth, you are fine the way you are, and attempts to 'cure' people are now prohibited and punishable."

The bill was introduced by D66, VVD, PvdA, SP and the Party for the Animals. According to the parties, so-called conversion therapies cause serious harm. The lawmakers point to scientific research linking such practices to depression, mental health problems, social difficulties and, in some cases, suicide attempts.

The new law bans attempts to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of children and vulnerable adults. Violations can result in prison sentences of up to two years, and practitioners may be barred from their profession. Advertising for conversion practices will also be prohibited.

Conversion practices do not change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity, but they can cause severe harm. Research shows they may lead to lifelong trauma, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Dutch LGBTQ+ advocacy group COC has campaigned for a ban on conversion practices for around fifteen years. "Your entire identity is broken down. That trauma never goes away," said Jacques Zonne, describing the impact of conversion practices. He was confined for two years in an attempt to "cure" his homosexuality and gathered 8,000 signatures in support of a ban.

There are still at least fifteen providers of conversion practices operating in the Netherlands. Thousands of people are affected by them. These practices range from "therapies", holiday camps, seminars and workshops to faith healing and exorcisms.

Conversion practices are already banned in Germany, France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta and Cyprus. Human rights bodies, from the United Nations to the Council of Europe, have called on countries to outlaw conversion practices. The European Commission has also urged governments to introduce such bans.