The Netherlands Bans Harmful ‘Conversion Therapy’

Lawmakers in The Netherlands have approved a new law banning the harmful practice of so-called “conversion therapy,”which attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

🇳🇱 The Netherlands will ban so-called gay conversion therapy. The law prohibits attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation through therapy.https://t.co/SspuzlvC7U

— Global Equality Caucus (@Equality_Caucus) June 16, 2026

From The Netherlands Times:

Certain methods intended to change or suppress someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity were already prohibited, including practices such as shock therapy and the use of medication. The bill’s initiators argue that existing criminal law does not fully cover all harmful forms of conversion practices.

During parliamentary debate, Senator Peter Nicolaï of the Partij voor de Dieren cited examples such as prolonged psychological pressure, pseudo-therapeutic sessions, prayer-based healing, and exorcism, particularly when carried out within relationships of dependency.

The new legislation bans conversion therapy when it targets minors or adults in vulnerable situations.

Anyone who violates the law can face fines of up to 27,500 euros or a prison term of up to two years. Professionals found to be involved in so-called “conversion” practices may also lose their right to practice.

Advocates have spent nearly 15 years pushing for the ban, arguing that conversion therapy is both ineffective and harmful.

Related: EU Parliament Votes To Ban Harmful ‘Conversion Therapy’

At this writing 7 member countries of the European Union — Belgium, Cyprus, France, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and Spain — have banned conversion therapy outright. Greece and Germany have banned the practice for minors.

🏳️‍🌈 Landmark victory for LGBTQ+ rights. The Netherlands has voted to ban conversion therapy, ending years of campaigning by survivors and activists.

Here’s what it means ⬇️ https://t.co/sHPOkLmpxL

— Mambaonline (@Mambaonline) June 17, 2026