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Europe Bans Conversion Therapy Amidst Controversy

1/31/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Council of Europe voted January 28, 2026, to ban conversion therapy across its 46 member states.
Labour MP Kate Osborne introduced the resolution, which passed 71–26 with two abstentions.
Conversion practices are linked to conservative religious groups and cause psychological harm.
Survivors are more than twice as likely to attempt suicide.
Sex Matters opposed the ban and the Good Law Project urged a trans-inclusive ban.

History

Historical Context

In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder, prompting a shift in societal attitudes and the rise of advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign. By 2026, the Council of Europe voted to ban conversion therapy, reflecting ongoing efforts to protect LGBTQ+ rights and improve mental health outcomes across Europe, where 28 countries have enacted similar bans.

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Story summary

The Council of Europe voted January 28, 2026, to ban conversion therapy across its 46 member states.
Labour MP Kate Osborne introduced the resolution, which passed 71–26 with two abstentions.
Conversion practices are linked to conservative religious groups and cause psychological harm.
Survivors are more than twice as likely to attempt suicide.
Sex Matters opposed the ban and the Good Law Project urged a trans-inclusive ban.

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