Full Breakdown
Council of Europe Votes to Ban Conversion Practices
1/31/2026, 8:03:47 PM
Core Event: Passage of the Ban on Conversion Practices
On January 28, 2026, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) voted to ban conversion practices across its 46 member states. This resolution, spearheaded by Labour MP Kate Osborne, received overwhelming support with 71 votes in favor, 26 against, and two abstentions. Conversion practices, which aim to change or suppress an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, have been widely condemned as abusive and lacking scientific validity. The resolution calls for member states to enact legislation prohibiting these practices and to integrate such bans into broader anti-discrimination frameworks.
Background & Context: The Fight Against Conversion Therapy
Conversion practices are often associated with conservative religious groups and have been described as forms of torture, leading to severe psychological harm. Research indicates that survivors of these practices are significantly more likely to experience mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation. The Trevor Project reports that individuals subjected to conversion practices are more than twice as likely to attempt suicide. Despite this, the UK government has yet to implement a ban, despite previous commitments made by former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2018.
Key Figures & Groups: Advocates and Opponents
Kate Osborne has been a prominent advocate for the ban, emphasizing the harmful consequences of conversion practices. Following the vote, she stated, “Banning conversion practices isn’t just a legal intervention. It’s a statement about who belongs in our societies.” Conversely, the gender-critical group Sex Matters lobbied against the resolution, arguing that it could hinder psychological screenings for trans youth and claiming that it would impose criminal penalties on professionals who do not affirm a child's self-declared gender identity.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over the Resolution
Critics, including psychotherapist Stella O'Malley, argue that the resolution conflates various therapeutic practices and could criminalize legitimate psychotherapy. O'Malley expressed concern that the ban would discourage careful assessment and exploration of gender dysphoria, potentially harming young people seeking help. The Athena Forum, a European initiative advocating for sex-based rights, warned that the resolution could lead to criminal sanctions for mental health professionals who do not conform to its mandates.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the resolution's passage, Jess O’Thomson from the Good Law Project described it as a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community, urging the UK government to align with the Council of Europe’s stance. “It’s now time for the UK government to follow the Council of Europe and ensure a trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices,” O’Thomson stated.
What's Next: Implications for Member States
While PACE resolutions are nonbinding, they often influence national legislation. The Council of Europe’s call for a ban on conversion practices may prompt member states to adopt similar laws, potentially reshaping the landscape of mental health care and LGBTQ+ rights across Europe. The pressure now lies on the UK government to fulfill its promise to enact a ban, as advocates continue to push for protections against conversion practices.
