Netherlands backs sweeping ban on conversion therapy for young people and vulnerable adults

The Netherlands has moved to outlaw conversion therapy targeting children and vulnerable adults, following a decisive vote in the country’s Senate.

The legislation, which had already passed the Dutch House of Representatives, will introduce penalties for those carrying out such practices, including possible prison sentences of up to two years and financial fines. Practitioners could also face losing their professional licences.

While some extreme forms of conversion therapy, such as medical or shock-based interventions, were already prohibited, lawmakers argued that existing rules did not go far enough. The new measures aim to address a broader range of practices, including psychological pressure, so-called “pastoral” or prayer-based interventions, and other forms of pseudo-therapy.

The bill was driven by political parties including D66 and VVD, who described its passage as the result of sustained efforts to uphold principles of equality and human dignity. LGBTQ+ advocacy group COC Netherlands, which has campaigned on the issue for more than a decade, welcomed the decision as a major milestone and a victory for survivors.

Evidence cited during the debate pointed to the damaging impact of conversion practices, with studies linking them to increased risks of mental distress and other serious harms.

The move positions the Netherlands among a growing number of countries strengthening protections against conversion practices, particularly for those seen as most at risk.

Extending legal protections to trans people, young people and vulnerable adults sends a clear signal that attempts to suppress LGBTQ+ identities are abusive and unacceptable under the law.