Lahbib stated during the launch of the European LGBTQI+ strategy for 2026-2030, “Conversion practices are not therapies. They are harmful, can lead to physical and mental health issues, and fundamentally discredit the dignity of those affected.”
Statistics reveal that one in four LGBTQI+ individuals, and nearly half of transgender men and women, have encountered such practices, which may involve physical or sexual violence, verbal insults, or humiliation. “This must come to an end,” emphasized the Belgian Commissioner.
“Conversion therapy” encompasses a variety of methods aimed at altering an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Certain EU member states still necessitate surgical or medical treatments for legal gender recognition.
Experts from the United Nations equate these practices to torture and advocate for their prohibition. The Netherlands is set to become the ninth nation to outlaw these practices, following Belgium’s lead. Meanwhile, a recent citizen initiative seeking a European-wide ban has amassed over 1.2 million signatures.
“We will collaborate with member states, respecting their individual jurisdictions, to eliminate these harmful practices,” Lahbib stated. “However, we currently lack a comprehensive understanding of what these practices entail. We need to collect data and information to determine the most effective approach to address this matter.”
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