Full Breakdown
Netherlands Passes Comprehensive Ban on Conversion Therapy
6/18/2026, 9:38:19 PM
Historic Ban on Conversion Therapy
The Dutch Senate approved a law criminalising conversion-therapy practices aimed at children and vulnerable adults. The measure follows earlier approval by the House of Representatives and introduces up to two years’ imprisonment, fines up to €27,500, and possible loss of professional licences.
Legislative Path and Vote Discrepancies
The bill moved from the lower house to the Senate, where it secured a majority. Sources differ on the exact vote: one report cites a 75-to-57 tally, while two others record 57-to-15, with fifteen senators recorded as opposing.
Key Advocates and Groups
COC Netherlands, the world’s oldest LGBTIQA+ advocacy group, led the campaign, with chair Myrtille Danse publicly celebrating the outcome. Survivors such as Jacques Zonne testified, and Senator Peter Nicolaï highlighted the need to ban exorcism-based interventions. Parties D66 and VVD co-sponsored the legislation.
Scope, Penalties, and Data
The law bans any counselling, workshop, religious or faith-healing practice intended to change or suppress sexual orientation or gender identity. Offenders face up to two years in prison, fines up to €27,500, and deregistration. COC identified at least 15 providers operating nationally.
Impact and Evidence
Scientific surveys link conversion practices to heightened psychological distress, depression, substance abuse, and suicide risk. A 2013 study reported 84 % of participants experienced lasting shame; a 2022 report showed higher rates of distress (47 % vs 34 %) and attempted suicide (58 % vs 39 %).
Official Statements & Responses
The D66 and VVD parties said the law reflects long-standing commitment to freedom, equality and human dignity. The European Commission, which condemned conversion practices in May, pledged a recommendation urging all EU members to outlaw them and to fund awareness campaigns and survivor support.
Criticism and Opposition
Fifteen senators voted against the bill; no public statements from opposition members are recorded in the sources. The lack of explicit dissent limits insight into counter-arguments.
Survivor Voices
Survivor Jacques Zonne described his experience as a profound identity breakdown that left lasting trauma. Activists highlighted the personal toll of conversion practices throughout the campaign.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The Senate vote count is reported as 75-57 in one source and 57-15 in two others, creating a discrepancy. The exact number of conversion-therapy providers beyond the cited minimum of 15 remains unspecified, and enforcement details are absent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “years of commitment to freedom, equality, and human dignity have been rewarded.” — D66 and VVD parties
- “We have been fighting for the ban with victims and colleague organizations for almost 15 years and are very happy with this result. We see it as a victory for the victims,” — COC Netherlands (social media)
- “Finally justice for victims who often suffer from conversion disorders for life,” — Myrtille Danse, COC Chair
- “Your entire identity is broken down. That trauma never goes away,” — Jacques Zonne, survivor
Future Outlook
The European Commission plans to issue an EU-wide recommendation to ban conversion therapy and to fund awareness and survivor support across member states.
