What Is the Conversion Practices Legislation?

Comprehensive Consultation on Banning Conversion Therapy: Legislation and Ending Harmful Practices
Conversion practices are illegal in many areas due to their harmful psychological effects.
  • Last Updated: 02 Mar 2025
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Founder:

Bert Hofhuis
Key Takeaways
  • Conversion practices law aims to prohibit therapies intended to change sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • The law seeks to protect individuals from harmful and coercive practices.
  • Penalties for those conducting conversion practices can include fines and imprisonment.
  • The legislation emphasizes support for LGBTQ+ individuals through inclusive and affirming services.
  • Advocacy groups play a significant role in promoting awareness and ensuring the enforcement of these laws.

Conversion therapy, a harmful practice aiming to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity, has sparked legislative action worldwide.

What You'll Learn in This Article:

    In 2021, a comprehensive consultation was initiated to tackle the issue. The proposed legislation seeks to ban conversion practices and end the harm they cause to vulnerable individuals.

    Legislation

    The proposed legislation aims to prohibit the practice of conversion therapy, which targets individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identities.

    It addresses the criminal law implications of offering or undergoing conversion therapy, emphasizing the need to protect victims and support a ban on these harmful practices.

    Proposed Legislation

    The legislation proposed in April 2021 focuses on ending conversion practices in Scotland, recognizing the equality and human rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

    It highlights the risks associated with conversion therapy and advocates for a ban on any form of harmful conversion practices.

    Criminal Law Implications

    The criminal law implications of banning conversion therapy are crucial in safeguarding the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.

    The legislation aims to provide legal protection for those who have undergone conversion therapy and prevent any further harm being inflicted on them.

    The involvement of the Scottish government signals a commitment to upholding the rights of transgender, lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals.

    Scottish Government Involvement

    The Scottish government plays a pivotal role in supporting a ban on conversion therapy and ensuring the well-being of individuals at risk.

    By establishing an advisory group on ending conversion practices, the government demonstrates a proactive approach towards eradicating harmful conversion therapies. 

    Through collaborative efforts with parliament and relevant organizations, the government aimed to enforce a ban on conversion therapy by 2023, marking a significant milestone in protecting vulnerable communities.

    Consultation

    In response to the growing advocacy against harmful conversion practices, a comprehensive consultation process was initiated in 2021 to address the urgent need for legislative action.

    The consultation aims to gather input from various stakeholders and communities affected by conversion therapy, with a focus on understanding the challenges faced by individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identities.

    Consultation Process

    The consultation process involves engaging with experts, LGBTQ+ advocates, healthcare professionals, and survivors of conversion therapy to gather insights on the impact of these practices.

    It seeks to assess the current legal framework and identify gaps that need to be addressed through robust legislation to end conversion practices effectively.

    Stakeholder Involvement

    Stakeholder involvement in the consultation process is critical for developing inclusive and effective policies.

    By engaging with LGBTQ+ organizations, legal experts, mental health professionals, and affected communities, the consultation ensures a diverse range of perspectives are considered in crafting legislation to ban harmful conversion therapies.

    Public Response

    The public response to the consultation has been overwhelmingly in favor of banning conversion therapy and providing support for victims.

    It reflects a societal shift towards greater acceptance and respect for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities, signaling a positive step towards ending harmful conversion practices.

    Ending Harmful Practices

    Efforts to end conversion practices are gaining momentum globally, with a particular focus on protecting individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identities.

    The proposed legislation seeks to ban these harmful practices and create a safe environment for vulnerable communities.

    By addressing the criminal law implications of conversion therapy, the legislation aims to provide legal protection for victims.

    Social Impact

    The social impact of conversion practices extends beyond individual harm to affect entire communities. Those subjected to conversion therapies often face stigmatization and discrimination, leading to mental health issues and social exclusion.

    Consequently, a ban on conversion therapy not only protects individuals but also fosters a more inclusive society that respects diversity and upholds human rights.

    Associated Risks and Mitigation

    Associated risks of conversion therapy include psychological trauma, self-harm, and identity crisis among those subjected to these practices.

    Mitigation strategies involve education, awareness campaigns, and mental health support to combat the negative effects of conversion therapies. 

    By implementing these mitigation measures, the harmful impact of conversion practices can be minimized, contributing to the overall well-being of individuals.

    Common Questions

    Conversion therapy legislation has raised several common questions regarding its coverage, protection of individuals, associated penalties, enforcement measures, and global adoption.

    Understanding these aspects is crucial in comprehending the impact and scope of the proposed legislation.

    What Does the Conversion Practices Legislation Cover?

    How Does the Conversion Practices Legislation Protect Individuals?

    What Penalties Are Associated with Conversion Practices?

    What Countries Have Enacted Conversion Practices Legislation?

    How Is the Conversion Practices Legislation Enforced?

    Conclusion

    The comprehensive consultation and proposed legislation to end conversion practices mark significant progress in safeguarding the rights and well-being of individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

    By addressing the criminal law implications and societal impact of conversion therapies, the legislation paves the way for a more inclusive and respectful society.

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