The European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) seeking an EU-wide ban on conversion practices was discussed on Monday by the Committees on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs, alongside the Committees on Petitions and Women’s Rights and Gender Equality. This initiative, titled ‘Ban on Conversion Practices in the European Union,’ collected over one million signatures within a week.
Conversion practices—aimed at changing or suppressing an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression—remain legal in many EU member states, despite evidence of their severe physical and psychological harm. Since 2016, the European Parliament has condemned discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, including conversion practices.
The debate highlighted the need for EU-level legislation to close protection gaps and address cross-border enforcement challenges. ECI organisers emphasised the absence of uniform definitions and enforcement mechanisms, which allows harmful practices to continue. The discussion also focused on protecting minors and enhancing coordination among member states while ensuring that EU funds are not used to support organisations linked to conversion practices.
MEPs considered legal pathways for the ban, including classifying these practices as an EU crime or addressing them through directives related to victim protection and non-discrimination. Concerns about potential overreach regarding freedom of expression and religious counselling were also raised.
The European Commission is expected to respond to the ECI by May 18, 2026, and is conducting a study on conversion practices, with results anticipated in early 2027.
